Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a destructive form of arthritis. It can cause crippling and deformation of joints at an early age and can affect anyone.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? (Known as RA )

RA is an autoimmune disease, meaning that the body attacks its own tissue. The cause of this condition is unknown and is most commonly developed between the ages of 25 - 50 years of age. Women are more likely to develop RA than men. Rheumatoid Arthritis can occassionally go into remission that can last weeks, months and even years.

Signs & Symptoms

RA usually begins as morning stiffness, pain in small joints of hands and or feet. It can eventually progress to larger joints throughout the body. The signs to be aware of are as follows: Fatigue, Malaise, Loss Of Appetite, Low Grade Fever, Joint Pain, Range Of Motion Limitation, Morning Stiffness, Nodules Under Skin, Inflammation Or Redness Of Skin.

Diagnosing RA

There are several tests performed to determine RA: An RF (Rhuematoid Factor ) Blood Test and X Ray for evidence of joint damage are most commonly used for diagnosing along with the presence of Nodules.

Medical Treatments: ASA and NSAIDS (Non Steroid Ant-Inlammatory Drugs ) are most commonly used but, are only temporary pain relievers. Unfortunately prolonged use of these medications can cause side affects.

Other Treatments: Many studies show that certain foods can cause flare ups in RA.

Trying to avoid these foods may decrease RA symptoms:
Barley, Oats, Rye, and Wheats. All Dairy Products and Eggs. Sugars and Colas ( including artifically sweetened ) Alcoholic Beverages, Foods containing Additives and Preservatives, Fried Foods and Red Meats including Pork.

Foods To Include In Your Diet: Filtered Water, Rice and or Soy Milk, All Fresh and Dried Fruits, Lamb, Poultry, Fish and Seafoods, Rice Pastas, Rice Cereal, Rice Cakes, Rice Crackers, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Pumpkin and Squash.

Also add Flaxseed Oil or add fish such as Halibut, Salmon, Sardines and Cod to be sure you are getting the essential fatty acids in your diet.

Be sure to keep a balanced diet as well as proper limited exercise to ease the pain and stiffness associated with RA. Please be sure to discuss any changes to your medications with your doctor. Do not stop taking unless advised. This diet with the proper medications may be of help to you!