Arthritis impacts over 46 million Americans. Arthritis could be caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection of joints. Arthritis can also happen because of an inherited defect or an injury, or it could be caused by an immune reaction in your body. In autoimmune-related arthritis, our bodies incorrectly identifies the synovial membrane as foreign and starts to attack it. The synovial membrane is the connective tissue that lines the joints. Some types of arthritis are reversible and could be controlled with healthy diet and lifestyle choices.
Arthritis Symptoms
Arthritis causes the inflammation of one or more joints in your body. Common negative effects include pain, stiffness, swelling and a decreased flexibility. Joints may crack, pop or make noise when they move. Some arthritic problems could affect bones, muscles or body internal organs. Undiagnosed or untreated arthritis can result in irreversible joint damage. Joints may become weak or deformed eventually. Arthritis symptoms may come on gradually or appear quickly.
Arthritis Treatment
Several food items, food sensitivities and food allergies may raise symptoms of arthritis. Eliminating allergic foods could help reduce joint pain. Diet, changes in lifestyle and alternative medicine can go along with traditional courses of treatment. Prescription medications are sometimes prescribed to decrease immune activity, reduce inflammation and minimize joint pain. The Arthritis Foundation recommends acupuncture, massage, dietary changes and herbal medicines as alternative methods to deal with arthritis symptoms. These methods must only be used together with a medical doctor.