Category: Knee Arthritis

You don’t look sick – Living with rheumatoid arthritis: VEGAN PAN DINNER

I made a vegan pan dinner. It has tofu, green beans and Japanese sweet potatoes. You season everything and throw it in a pan and put it in the oven. It’s a very easy dinner and it made so much that I will be eating it for a few days.

My friend’s kid came over to help me. He drove me to the computer store to have my laptop checked. You know, on the laptop I spilled tea on the keyboard. The place he took me to wouldn’t look at it, but later that day I took a taxi to another store. They send it in to have it looked at. For $30, it’s worth having it reviewed.

The boy also drove me to the dog food store to get some new food for Lucky. She is losing weight and not eating as much. I thought some tempting foods would help. Later she ate a little bit of it. Lucky eats, but not as much as he used to. She ran 2 miles yesterday, so she’s doing great!

See you tomorrow…

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October 23, 2023
Beyond osteoporosis: health implications of metabolic acidosis beyond osteoporosis
The food we consume plays a crucial role in maintaining the acid-base balance in our blood. This simple fact is key to understanding how the Osteoporosis Reversal Program uses nutrition to prevent and reverse osteoporosis.
In a state of low-grade metabolic acidosis, where the balance becomes too acidic, the body begins to dissolve bone mass. That’s because the minerals in bone are alkalizing and the body needs to maintain its alkaline pH.

Nevertheless, too acidic a pH causes more than just bone loss. Today we’ll look at some of the other health consequences of metabolic acidosis and learn how to avoid them.

Dietary acid load

Nutrition is critical for maintaining acid-base balance. As our bodies break down the food we eat, the compounds and molecules that make up that food are released. Some compounds have an acidifying or alkalizing effect as they interact with our digestive system.

These compounds are called acidic or alkaline precursors. Acidic precursors include phosphorus and some proteins. Alkali precursors include potassium, magnesium and calcium.

The food we consume determines the balance of acid and alkali precursors in our digestive system, which determines the pH level of our blood.¹

Our kidneys play an important role in maintaining a healthy pH level. They metabolize acid and alkali precursors and eliminate excess acid through the urine. The measurement of this excess acid secreted is called net acid production (NEAP) and may indicate an imbalance of acid and alkali precursors in the diet.

The effect of a particular food or meal on our net acid production is called the potential renal acid load (PRAL). Each food has a PRAL score that indicates whether it will acidify or alkalinize serum pH. Scientists have developed systems to assess the potential renal acid burden (PRAL) of a person’s diet and use PRAL to estimate their net acid production (NEAP). This illustrates the direct connection between nutrition and pH levels.

A diet with a high PRAL score will correlate with a high NEAP level and indicates some degree of metabolic acidosis.¹

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Food contains acid and base precursors, which acidify or alkalize the pH of our blood. The measure of excess acid secreted is net acid production (NEAP), and the measure of a food’s impact on pH is potential renal acid load (PRAL). Diet has a direct influence on the pH value of the blood.

The health effects of metabolic acidosis

Diets rich in acid-producing compounds and deficient in alkali-producing compounds such as potassium, calcium and magnesium can cause low-grade metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis can lead to many conditions and harmful changes in your body.¹
- Increased cortisol levels – Cortisol, the stress hormone, is linked to increased inflammation. Chronic high cortisol levels and the inflammation it causes contribute to many of the other health effects of acidosis.
- Sarcopenia – Sarcopenia refers to the loss of muscle mass. It is likely caused by an increase in cortisol which inhibits the production of proteins for muscle building. This loss of muscle mass is accompanied by a loss of strength and increases the risk of frailty. Sarcopenia also affects the ability to build bone because muscles stimulate bone formation.
- Hypertension – Hypertension refers to high blood pressure. Cortisol increases vasoconstriction, which increases blood pressure. Hypertension can lead to heart disease and stroke.
- Diabetes and insulin resistance – Metabolic acidosis alters the expression of insulin receptors, causing insulin sensitivity. Insulin sensitivity is an important risk factor leading to diabetes.
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease – Another effect of insulin resistance is an increase in available free fatty acids, leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Over time, inflammation and scarring can occur in the liver, which can lead to liver failure.
- Chronic kidney disease – Metabolic acidosis can cause early and irreversible stages of chronic kidney disease. Once kidney damage has occurred, acidifying diets accelerate the progression of the disease.
- Cardiovascular disease and death – Several of the previously mentioned consequences are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease can be fatal and is even the leading cause of death worldwide. Research in Japan found that participants who consumed a diet high in PRAL had a 16% higher risk of cardiovascular death, and a 13% higher risk of general mortality.¹
- Bone loss – As Savers know, an acidic blood pH causes bone loss. Metabolic acidosis both decreases the bone-building activity of osteoblasts and increases bone resorption of osteoclasts. This can result in a decrease in bone mineralization and an increase in the number of fractures.¹
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Metabolic acidosis can lead to a variety of health problems, including hypertension, diabetes, insulin resistance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease and premature death. Many of these are attributed to increases in cortisol caused by metabolic acidosis.

How to prevent metabolic acidosis

Because an acidifying diet mainly causes metabolic acidosis, following a pH-balanced diet is a direct and straightforward method to prevent this. The PRAL scoring system provides an accurate and numerical way to measure how acidifying or alkalizing a food is.

The potential acid load in the kidneys describes the excretion of excess acid, so negative PRAL scores indicate a reduction in acid load, and positive scores indicate an increase in acid load. Below are some examples of the PRAL scores of 100 grams of alkalizing and acidifying foods:¹

*Food Foundation

Fruits and vegetables tend to be alkalizing, and most other foods tend to be acidifying. However, that does not mean that acidifying foods are bad for you. It’s all about balance.

The Osteoporosis Reversal Program contains a complete list of alkalizing and acidifying foods that you can use when creating pH-balanced meals. Each meal should contain approximately 80% alkalizing foods and 20% acidifying foods. ORP’s pH-balanced diet goes beyond improving your bone health; it also helps protect you from all the ailments described above.

The system is easy to use, requires only one look at the composition of your plate and offers enough flexibility to process all your favorite dishes in moderation.

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You can prevent metabolic acidosis by eating a pH-balanced diet. The Osteoporosis Reversal Program includes a complete list of alkalizing and acidifying foods and guidelines for the 80/20 pH balanced diet.

What this means for you

Although the consequences of an acidifying diet require time to recover, acidification can be tackled fairly quickly. Our blood is constantly pumping and our diet is constantly changing the pH of our blood. Start eating a pH-balanced diet today to help get your body on the right track.

The Save Institute has developed a special program to boost your progress: the Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse. It is a seven-day program that accelerates your body’s ability to heal itself and grow stronger bones. With six simple steps, it helps you restore healthy pH levels and start the journey to better health and stronger bones.

Consume a varied and tasty pH-balanced diet that not only prevents acidosis but also promotes bone health, ensuring a long, independent life.

References

¹ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2013251419301129
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October 23, 2023
Inflammatory diseases do not increase the risk of clotting after COVID, research shows
This is evident from a recent study published in the journal JAMA network openedResearchers in Canada investigated whether coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) were at higher risk of experiencing venous thromboembolism after recovery from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV- 2) infections compared to COVID-19 patients without IMIDs.

Study: Venous thromboembolism after COVID-19 infection in people with and without immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Image credits: Kateryna Kon / Shutterstock

Background

Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases are heterogeneous chronic diseases resulting from an abnormally activated immune system. Approximately 5% to 7% of the population of the Western world is affected by IMIDs, and individuals with IMIDs have a higher risk of venous thromboembolism compared to individuals without IMIDs. Rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, vasculitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis are IMIDs known to increase the risk of venous thromboembolism.

The inflammation in IMID patients causes platelet abnormalities, endothelial dysfunction, fibrinolysis disorders, and abnormal activation of clotting factors. Recent evidence also indicates that the widespread inflammation and endothelial dysfunction caused by COVID-19 is associated with a higher risk of venous thromboembolism and multi-organ failure in patients who have recovered from moderate to severe SARS-CoV-2 infections. However, whether COVID-19 increases the risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with IMIDs remains unknown.

About the study

In the current study, the researchers used population-based healthcare data from Ontario, Canada, to evaluate whether the risk and incidence of venous thromboembolism were higher in individuals with IMIDs who had recovered from COVID-19 compared to COVID-19 . patients without IMIDs.

The data includes all interactions Ontario residents with valid health cards had with the health care system, including emergency room visits, hospital admissions, outpatient surgeries and single-day hospital admissions. In addition, physician billings for all patient interactions were included in the data. The administrative health information was also linked to databases containing demographic information and data on COVID-19 testing and vaccination status.

In the retrospective matched cohort analysis, researchers matched individuals who had IMIDs and tested positive for COVID-19 with up to five individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 but did not have IMIDs. Controls were compared based on factors such as age, gender, urban or rural residence, and average income quantile of the neighborhood. Individuals with a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm five years after a positive COVID-19 test were excluded from the study.

Positive cases of COVID-19 were identified based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results, while individuals with IMIDs were identified based on physician billings, records of endoscopy procedures, and medication prescriptions specific to IMIDs. Data on hospital admissions and emergency department visits were used to identify events of venous thromboembolism. The primary outcome examined was venous thromboembolism of any type, with secondary outcomes including pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis.

A modified Charlson Comorbidity Index was used to include comorbidities such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or congestive heart failure before the positive diagnosis of COVID-19. Individuals with at least two vaccination doses before positive diagnosis of COVID-19 were considered vaccinated. In addition, socio-demographic factors such as residential areas in urban or rural areas, gender, age, socio-economic status and death before the conclusion of follow-up were also taken into account during the analysis.

Results

The findings suggested that individuals with IMIDs did not have a significantly higher risk of venous thromboembolism after recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infections compared to individuals without IMIDs. Among the 28,440 individuals with IMIDs included in the study, the incidence of venous thromboembolism was 2.64 per 100,000 person-days, while in the matched cohorts of individuals without IMIDs it was 2.18 per 100,000 person-days.

However, when the analysis was not adjusted for comorbidities, those with IMIDs had a greater risk of venous thromboembolism after recovery from COVID-19 than those without IMIDs. Furthermore, findings were similar when the risk of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism was examined separately.

The presence of other comorbidities was found to confound the association between venous thromboembolism and IMIDs after SARS-CoV-2 infections. These findings highlight the need for physicians to consider factors such as comorbidities and individual risk factors when prescribing venous thromboembolism prophylactics to IMID patients who have recovered from COVID-19.

Conclusions

Overall, the findings reported that patients with IMIDs are not at greater risk of venous thromboembolism after SARS-CoV-2 infections compared to COVID-19 patients without IMIDs. However, some comorbidities may confound the association between IMIDs and venous thromboembolism associated with COVID-19, and physicians should consider individual risk factors when treating IMID patients for COVID-19 complications.
Magazine reference:

Khan, R., Ellen, K. M., Tang, F., James, Widdifield, J., McCurdy, J. D., Kaplan, GG, & Benchimol, E. I. (2023). Venous thromboembolism after COVID-19 infection in people with and without immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. JAMA network opened, 6(10), e2337020–e2337020. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.37020
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October 23, 2023
Environmental triggers of rheumatoid arthritis

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness and swelling. Although the exact cause of RA remains unknown, research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors of rheumatoid arthritis play an important role in its development. No single trigger will cause RA, but rather there is a complex interplay of genetics and environmental triggers that can ‘initiate’ the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Each of these factors is unique to the person and all contribute to the onset and progression of this condition.

Understanding rheumatoid arthritis

Before we delve into the environmental factors, it is important to have a basic understanding of rheumatoid arthritis. RA is a chronic inflammatory disease that mainly affects the joints, but can also affect other organs. It is characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s own tissues, especially the synovium, which lines the joints.

Environmental triggers of rheumatoid arthritis

Although genetics contribute to a person’s susceptibility to RA, environmental factors can trigger the disease in individuals with a genetic predisposition. These triggers can be external factors that interact with the body’s immune system and potentially lead to the development of RA. Several environmental factors have been identified and studied in association with rheumatoid arthritis.

Genetic predisposition and environmental factors

Individuals with certain genetic variations are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis. However, genetic predisposition alone is not sufficient to cause the disease. Environmental factors play a crucial role in the onset of RA in genetically susceptible individuals. Factors such as infections, smoking, diet, air pollution, stress, hormonal changes, weather conditions and exposure to chemicals are mentioned as possible triggers.

The role of infections in causing rheumatoid arthritis

Infections, especially those caused by certain bacteria and viruses, have been linked to the development of rheumatoid arthritis. It is believed that these infections can trigger an abnormal immune response, leading to the production of antibodies that attack the body’s own tissues. This process can eventually cause the onset of RA in susceptible individuals.

The impact of smoking on rheumatoid arthritis

Smoking has long been recognized as a major environmental cause of rheumatoid arthritis. Research has shown that smokers have a higher risk of developing RA than non-smokers. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can activate immune cells and promote inflammation, contributing to the development and progression of the disease.

Diet and rheumatoid arthritis

Although the relationship between diet and rheumatoid arthritis is complex and not yet fully understood, certain dietary factors have been linked to the risk and severity of RA. For example, diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish and flaxseed, have shown potential anti-inflammatory effects and may help reduce symptoms of RA. On the other hand, diets high in saturated fats and processed foods can promote inflammation and worsen the condition.

The influence of air pollution

Air pollution, especially particulate matter (PM2.5) and diesel exhaust, has been identified as a potential environmental trigger for rheumatoid arthritis. Inhalation of these pollutants can lead to oxidative stress, inflammation and immune system dysfunction. Long-term exposure to air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of developing RA and worsening symptoms in individuals already diagnosed with the condition.

Stress and rheumatoid arthritis

Chronic stress has been implicated as a trigger for rheumatoid arthritis. Stress can compromise the immune system and promote inflammation, potentially worsening RA symptoms. Although stress alone does not cause the disease, it can contribute to its onset and influence its progression.

Hormonal factors

Hormonal changes, especially in women, have been linked to an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis. The fluctuation of hormones, such as estrogen, during the reproductive phase and menopause can affect the immune response and contribute to the development or worsening of RA symptoms.

Weather and rheumatoid arthritis

Many people with rheumatoid arthritis report that changes in weather conditions, especially cold and damp weather, can worsen their symptoms. Others say humidity increases swelling and pain in their joints. Although the exact mechanisms behind this association are not yet fully understood, it is thought that changes in temperature and barometric pressure may influence joint inflammation and pain perception in some individuals with RA.

Chemical exposure and rheumatoid arthritis

Exposure to certain chemicals, such as solvents, pesticides and heavy metals, has been linked to an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. These chemicals can disrupt the immune system and promote inflammation, potentially triggering the onset of RA or worsening its symptoms.

Preventive measures and lifestyle changes

While it may not be possible to completely prevent rheumatoid arthritis, certain preventative measures and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk and control symptoms. These include maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, managing stress levels, staying physically active, protecting oneself from infections and minimizing exposure to environmental pollutants and chemicals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, rheumatoid arthritis is a complex disease influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Environmental factors of rheumatoid arthritis, such as infections, smoking, diet, air pollution, stress, hormonal changes, weather conditions, and chemical exposure may contribute to the onset and progression of RA in genetically predisposed individuals. Understanding these triggers and taking preventative measures can play an important role in controlling the disease and improving the quality of life for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can rheumatoid arthritis be completely prevented?

Rheumatoid arthritis cannot be completely prevented, but certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk and manage symptoms effectively.

2. Are all infections associated with rheumatoid arthritis?

Although certain infections have been linked to the development of rheumatoid arthritis, not all infections have been linked to the disease.

3. Is there a specific diet for rheumatoid arthritis?

There is no one-size-fits-all diet for rheumatoid arthritis. However, a balanced and healthy diet that is rich in nutrients and low in processed foods can support overall health and possibly alleviate symptoms.

4. How does air pollution affect rheumatoid arthritis?

Air pollution, especially particulate matter and diesel exhaust, can promote inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially worsening symptoms and increasing the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

5. Can stress alone cause rheumatoid arthritis?

Stress alone may not cause rheumatoid arthritis, but it can contribute to its onset and influence its progression by affecting the immune system and promoting inflammation.

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October 23, 2023
Peptides, bone health and prolonging your health with Nathalie Niddam + BoneCoach™ Osteoporosis and osteopenia – BoneCoach™

Have you come across the terms ‘peptides‘ And ‘bioregulators‘, but not sure what they mean for your health?

Are you curious about how these miracles can support you in your… osteoporosis trip?

What if there was a way? not just to add years to your life, but life to your years?

Dive into this insightful episode for answers!

Come with me as I sit down Nathalie Niddam, a podcast host, a lifelong biohacker, a holistic nutritionist, a human resource, and an epigenetic coach. Together we unravel the mysteries of peptides and bioregulators and shed light on them revolutionary potential for improving bone health and redefining what it means to age gracefully. Come with us the science, evidence, and real-world applications that might just be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for.

Episode timeline

0:00 – Episode begins

1:20 – Introduction of guest Nathalie Niddam

2:39 – Nathalie’s journey to health, longevity, biohacking and peptides

7:01 – Understanding what peptides are

11:27 – Exploring the nature of bioregulators

16:05 – Beneficial peptides and bioregulators for the 50 to 70+ age group, with an emphasis on osteoporosis and bone health

20:48 – Pineal and thymus bioregulators: improving quality of life and bone density

23:02 – Discussion of evidence, human studies and recipe questions

27:35 – Other important bioregulators to know about

32:52 – Acquiring and administering peptides in the US and Canada

40:23 – The role of peptides in bone healing and their relationship to growth hormones

46:09 – Comparing stem cells and peptides

48:46 – Key takeaways for the audience

51:10 – Connecting with Nathalie Niddam

Sources mentioned

**Show notes @ https://bonecoach.com/natniddam-peptides-osteoporosis-superhuman-performance

Below you will find Nathalie Niddam’s sources!

>> Join her Facebook community – The Optimizing Superhuman Performance Group – HERE

>> Click here to watch the Biohacking Superhuman Performance Podcast

>> Connect with Nathalie on her website

What can you do to support your bone health and this podcast?

1. Press the “Subscribe” button on your respective podcast player (i.e. Apple, Google, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and TuneIn). Never miss an episode that can help improve your bone health.

2. Leave a review. The more positive ratings and reviews and the more subscribers we have, the more people can find us and get the answers to the questions they need. Thank you! 🙂

3. Tell a friend about The Bone Coach Podcast or share via text, email or social. Do you know of a Facebook group where people can benefit from this information? Feel free to hit any of the share buttons below.

About Nathalie Niddam:

Nathalie Niddam is a podcast host, Longevity Biohacker, holistic nutritionist, human potential and epigenetic coach, and a self-proclaimed science nerd with a passion for human health.

A few years ago she came across peptides at a health optimization conference. She was fascinated by the potential these small proteins seemed to offer. This became the catalyst for the launch of her large and growing Facebook community – the Optimizing Superhuman Performance Group – to fuel the growing interest in these incredible connections. A year later, she launched the Biohacking Superhuman Performance Podcast, which is now rated as a top 100 podcast in its category in the US and Canada.

Nat’s passion is looking at longevity through the lens of everything we can do in every area of our lives to promote vibrant health, boundless energy focused on a healthy mind and body! She works one-on-one with clients, manages two large and growing communities, and regularly speaks at international conferences on the regenerative powers of peptides and peptide bioregulators.

Medical disclaimer

The information shared above is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or nutritional therapy advice; it does not diagnose, treat or cure any disease or condition; it should not be used as a substitute or substitute for medical advice from physicians and trained medical professionals. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or are currently taking prescription medications, you should discuss any changes in your diet and lifestyle or possible use of nutritional supplements with your doctor. You should not stop prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.

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October 22, 2023
You Don’t Look Sick – Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis: DAY 2 IN YOSEMITE

Got ready early this morning to go to Yosemite Valley. I got in my car and drove for miles along route 140 which brought me to the entrance to Yosemite National Park. I was supposed to meet my guide Paola at 9am for a half day of walking. We started our day by visiting a beautiful riverbed and sitting down and meditating. It was wonderfully close to the water and looked out on granite mountains with trees. After our meditation we went for a walk (isn’t it just walking?) and I saw a waterfall, Half Dome, Sentinel, and walked through a meadow. The only animals I saw were a family of ducks swimming in the water. I tested the water and it was very cold. The meadow we walked through had grass as high as my hips with goldenrod and milkweed. It was a very beautiful day. Paula was very patient and took me to many places to get the best photo.

After driving back to the hotel, I had an appointment for a bath. It was great for the first 15 minutes. Then I started getting a stabbing feeling in my lower back and my leg. I got out of the bath and the spots were red. Thinking I was being bitten by something, I came home and took a shower. Then I applied some antiseptic to the areas. Turns out it may have been a reaction to the eucalyptus in the tub. Three hours later and it’s gone.

I met my meditation group online and did a healing meditation. Then I went to the restaurant for dinner. I’m so full.

That was day 2. I contacted Lucky and she is starting to enjoy watching football on TV. Never too late to start a new hobby!

See you tomorrow…

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October 22, 2023
Researchers call for urgent improvements in pain management in patients with inflammatory arthritis

Researchers from Keele University’s School of Medicine have found that painkilling drugs – commonly known as ‘analgesics’ – are being widely prescribed across England to people with inflammatory arthritis, despite little research evidence that they improve pain in these patients, and studies which show that they can cause serious side effects. -Effects.

The study, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and published in the journal RheumatologyResearch found that all types of painkillers were widely prescribed: About two-thirds of patients with inflammatory arthritis received a prescription painkiller in 2020, and one in four patients received long-term prescription opioids. Many of these long-term prescriptions for opioids started around the time people were diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis.

Worryingly, many types of painkillers were more likely to be prescribed to people with inflammatory arthritis who were older (and therefore most at risk of side effects from medicines), were women, lived in deprived areas and in the north of England. This suggests there is unfairness about pain, or the way pain is managed in people with inflammatory arthritis in the NHS.

Inflammatory arthritis groups together conditions that cause joint pain and swelling. Its three main types – rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis – affect more than 1% of adults in England. Pain is a major challenge for patients with inflammatory arthritis, with most patients suffering daily pain and viewing pain as the area of their health they most want to see improved.

The crucial first step in improving NHS pain care for these patients is understanding how it is managed. To address this, the research team looked at data from a large GP database – the Clinical Practice Research Datalink Aurum – which currently contains information from more than 1,400 GP practices across England.

They looked at data from 2004 to 2020 to understand how different types of painkillers are prescribed to patients with inflammatory arthritis, and how this varies between people based on their age, gender, ethnicity and where they live.

Lead author Dr Ian Scott said the findings show there is an urgent need to improve the way pain is treated in patients with inflammatory arthritis in the English NHS. He described the fact that one in four patients were prescribed long-term opioids, and in 2020, one in ten patients were prescribed gabapentinoids, despite these medications having many potential side effects and no clinical trials showing they help when taken on be used this way. , as “very worrying”.

There are better ways to treat pain in patients with inflammatory arthritis that have been shown to help in clinical trials. These include reducing joint inflammation using specialized disease-modifying medications and exercise. We need to shift the focus of pain care from the long-term use of ineffective painkillers to the use of treatments that have been shown to help.”

Dr. Ian Scott, lead author

Source:

Magazine reference:

Scott, I.C., et al. (2023) Painkiller prescribing in patients with inflammatory arthritis in England: observational studies in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink. Rheumatology. doi.org/10.1093/rheumatology/kead463.

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October 20, 2023
Inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis: unraveling the mechanisms

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by joint inflammation, pain and stiffness, which can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Understanding the mechanisms behind inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis is crucial for developing effective treatments and improving patient outcomes.

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that mainly affects the joints. It is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. This chronic inflammation can lead to joint deformity, loss of function and disability if left untreated. Therefore, gaining insight into the mechanisms that drive inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis is crucial.

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is a natural process that occurs when the body’s immune system responds to injury or infection. It involves the release of various chemical signals and the activation of immune cells to protect the body and promote healing. While acute inflammation is a temporary response to a specific trigger, chronic inflammation, as seen in rheumatoid arthritis, persists for an extended period of time. It is this inflammation that causes the symptoms seen in RA.

Inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by persistent inflammation in the synovial joints, mainly affecting the hands, feet and wrists. The synovium, a thin membrane that lines the joints, becomes inflamed, leading to pain, swelling and stiffness. If left untreated, this inflammation can gradually damage the joints, cartilage and surrounding tissues.

Inflammatory mechanisms in rheumatoid arthritis

The inflammatory process in rheumatoid arthritis involves a complex interplay of immune cells, cytokines and genetic factors. Initially, immune cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells are activated, causing an immune response. These cells produce pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which play an important role in promoting inflammation and joint destruction . .

The role of the immune system

In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system plays a crucial role in causing inflammation. T cells and B cells, two types of lymphocytes, are mainly involved in the inflammatory process. T cells recognize specific antigens and release cytokines that further activate immune cells and enhance the inflammatory response. B cells produce autoantibodies that target the body’s own tissues, contributing to tissue damage and inflammation.

Inflammatory mediators

Several inflammatory mediators contribute to the persistent inflammation that occurs in rheumatoid arthritis. Prostaglandins, leukotrienes and cytokines are among the key players in the inflammatory cascade. Prostaglandins and leukotrienes are lipid mediators that promote vasodilation, increase vascular permeability, and recruit immune cells to the site of inflammation. Cytokines, such as TNF-alpha, IL-1 and IL-6, enhance the immune response and support the inflammatory process.

Inflammation and joint damage

The chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis can lead to irreversible joint damage. The continued presence of inflammatory mediators and immune cells promotes the destruction of cartilage and bone. Over time, this can result in joint deformities, loss of mobility and functional limitations. Early intervention to control inflammation is crucial in preventing or minimizing joint damage.

Inflammation and systemic effects

Inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis not only affects the joints, but can also have systemic consequences. Chronic inflammation increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. Additionally, it can lead to osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones, making people more susceptible to fractures. Controlling inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis is therefore essential for overall health and well-being.

Current treatment methods

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aims to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms and prevent joint damage. Conventional medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and corticosteroids, are often prescribed to control inflammation and manage pain. Biological therapies, such as TNF inhibitors and interleukin blockers, target specific inflammatory pathways and have revolutionized the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Possible future directions

Research into inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis is constantly evolving, leading to the development of new treatment methods. Emerging therapies, including Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and small molecule inhibitors, show promise in targeting specific molecules involved in the inflammatory process. Personalized medicine, based on an individual’s genetic profile, is also an area of active research, aimed at optimizing treatment outcomes and minimizing side effects.

Lifestyle and diet adjustments

In addition to medical interventions, lifestyle changes can play an important role in controlling inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Regular physical activity, tailored to individual capabilities, helps reduce joint stiffness and maintain joint flexibility. Following an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and omega-3 fatty acids can provide essential nutrients and possibly ease symptoms.

Conclusion

Inflammation is a major cause of rheumatoid arthritis and contributes to joint damage and systemic effects. Understanding the complicated mechanisms involved in inflammation can help develop targeted therapies and improve the lives of people with rheumatoid arthritis. By controlling inflammation, maintaining joint function, and taking a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle changes, people with rheumatoid arthritis can live fulfilling lives with a reduced burden of disease.

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October 20, 2023
4 women get real about living with rheumatoid arthritis

Your immune system is supposed to protect your body, but when you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), it accidentally attacks healthy joints, tissues, and organs, including the eyes and lungs. As a result, the chronic autoimmune disease causes pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function in the joints. It can also cause other symptoms, including fatigue, loss of appetite and dry eyes.

RA affects 1.5 million Americans and there is no cure. But it can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes.

Women’s health

Women’s Health magazine featured four women – including Mariah Leach, founder of Mamas Facing Forward – discussing the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, how they cope and what they’ve learned from living with RA.

4 women get real about living with rheumatoid arthritis

Women’s health

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October 20, 2023
You Don’t Look Sick – Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis: DAY 3 IN YOSEMITE

This morning started early after a long day yesterday. The burning sensation disappeared. I’m pretty sure it was something in the bath oil that caused me to have a bad reaction.

I drove to Yosemite (it’s an hour away) via the one-way bridge that cars cross in both directions. I got into the Yosemite gate pretty quickly. I drove another 20 minutes to the meeting spot. I was early so I stopped to take some photos at some take-out points.

I met up with Katherine and we got in her car to go to the next spot. It was Tuolumne Grove to see the gigantic majestic redwood trees. We walk through the forest.

Then we got in the car and drove to Olmsted Point where we walked a bit, took pictures and meditated for a while. There’s a fire in the park, so today the air was smoky.

Then we went to Taneya Lake where we ate a packed lunch she brought. It was nice to sit in her camp chairs and have lunch by a beautiful lake. One interesting fact: the boulders and trees all had rings around them. It was a trail left by the lake this year after the historic snowfall. The water rose so high!

Then we went to Tuolumne Meadow to Soda Springs. It’s a nice walk to see water that is actually naturally carbonated. Scientists can’t figure out why. I also used an outhouse for the first time in a long time.

We then headed back to Olmsted Point because the smoke cleared and I was able to get a better photo.

That was the end of my tour/walk for the day. I drove back to the room to shower and get ready for dinner. Tonight I decided to get take out and eat on my porch.

Now I have to go to bed, because tomorrow is coming soon. It was going to rain, so this walk will be interesting!

By the way, if you’re interested in the dog, she was caught watching football with her boyfriend.

Of course she comes from Chihuahua Mexico….

See you tomorrow…

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October 19, 2023