Rheumatoid Arthritis: What is It and How to Treat It

Ask the Doctor:

Question: My mom has rheumatoid arthritis, what is it?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is when the immune system – which protects our bodies from bacteria and viruses – begins attacking its own tissues, and with RA, it specifically attacks joints. The result is fluid in the joints that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and inflammation. Many people confuse RA with osteoarthritis but they differ; RA is more common and immune based whereas osteo arthritis is due to wear and tear of a joint.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms and course of rheumatoid arthritis vary from person to person. Morning stiffness is a common symptom, but swelling and pain and a decreased range of motion may occur as well.

A side note: RA is symmetrical; this means that if a joint on one side of the body is affected, the corresponding joint on the other side of the body is also involved.

How is it tested for?

Typically a doctor will preform a physical examination to determine mobility, if there is any fluid surrounding the joint (effusion), and take notice of any other muscular skeletal problems. General blood lab work – rheumatoid factor, x-rays, and if infection is suspected, joint fluid will be taken.

How to prevent arthritis?

manage stress in a positive way: meditation, exercise, deep breathing
maintaining a healthy weight
diet – engaging in a whole ( not processed) colorful food diet

How to Make RA More Comfortable

1. Increase Circulation

Stimulating blood and lymph flow will positively effect every system in the body. Increasing blood and lymph circulation will improve the flow of nutrients, optimize the elimination of toxins, and help support the immune system.

How?

Exercise daily. It could be a stroll around the block, a yoga class, or a few laps in the pool. Make an effort do something daily for at least 15 minutes.

Practice hydrotherapy: Dry skin loofah brushing, end a hot shower with cold water or apply castor oil packs to affected areas.

You can learn more about hydrotherapy here.

2. Anti-inflammatory Foods

Shop the periphery of the grocery store and chose foods that are colorful. Below is a list of foods that promote anti-inflammation:

Wild salmon, turmeric (sprinkle on rice or noodles), ginger, garlic, shitake mushrooms, olive oil, green tea, blueberries, cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, kale, brussel sprouts

3. Supplements to Consider

MSM and Glucosamine sulfate

Both act as anti-inflammatories and help stimulate new cartilage formation ( check with your personal doctor to determine what would be best for you).

A side note: Glucosamine may raise blood sugar so would not be the best choice for a diabetic.

Fish oils/ omega 3 (cod liver oil)

Fish oils promote anti-inflammatory pathways in the body. Nordic Naturals is a favorite brand.

Vitamin D

There has been research that indicates that low levels of Vitamin D might be a contributing factor for arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. If you have been diagnosed with arthritis, ask your doctor to run a lab test to determine if your Vitamin D levels are low.

Botanical Medicine

Stinging nettle ( urtica dioica) is an important herb to consider for early-onset of arthritis. It makes a nice tea and you can find a great tea blend at your local health foods store

Licorice (Glycirriza glabra) is another wonderful herb; also, a perfect herbal tea.

Alfalfa ( Medicago Saliva) is a popular remedy for arthritis.

(Look for a tea that contains all 3 of these herbs for full benefit)

Be well,

Dr. Heather