Handling Pain from Arthritis
Nestler
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints, the junctures where
the ends of two bones meet. This common disability comes in more
than 100 forms but for many sufferers, all they really want to
know is how do I get arthritis pain relief.
Some detective work on the part of the sufferer may be called
for. By determining when the symptoms pop up, it may be possible
to manage some of the suffering. Pain in a joint may be felt
during or after use, or after a period of inactivity. Discomfort
may signal a change in the weather or be felt during it.
Although there’s no cure for arthritis, available treatments can
relieve pain and help you remain active. At the first signs of
the illness, treatment should begin. Rest and easy exercise such
as swimming may be effective starting points along with some
over the counter medications to ease the pain and improve joint
functioning.
Among the treatments your doctor may suggest are medication,
self-care, physical therapy and occupational therapy.
Occasionally surgery is recommended; some individuals seek
relief from various forms of alternative medicine.
Medications include both topical and oral medications. Topical
medications come in the form of sprays, gels, creams and
ointments. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications may be sufficient
to treat milder arthritis, but stronger prescription medications
also are available.
OTC pain relievers such as acetaminophen can relieve pain but
does not reduce inflammation. Taking more than the recommended
dosage of acetaminophen can cause liver damage, especially if
you consume three or more drinks of alcoholic a day.
Acetaminophen can also affect other medications you may be
taking, so be sure to inform your doctor if you’re taking it.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work in two ways.
They relieve muscle pain and fight inflammation (such as from
rheumatoid arthritis). NSAIDs have risks of side effects that
increase when used at high dosages for long-term treatment.
Discuss with your doctor before using other medications such as
COX-2 inhibitors, and others which have different side-effects.
Antidepressants, apart from their antidepressant qualities,
especially tricyclics, can help reduce chronic pain. Some people
with arthritis also experience symptoms of depression.
Antidepressant medications can treat the sleep disturbance that
can accompany arthritis. Occasionally, your doctor may suggest
injecting a joint space with a corticosteroid, which can offer
some pain relief and reduce inflammation. In addition, how well
you live with arthritis often depends on your behaviors and
attitude. If you actively manage your arthritis, you may be able
to gain control over your pain.
SEO Solutions and one way
link publicity services provided by LinkAcquire.
David C Skul – CEO
LinkAcquire.com and Relativity, Inc. can provide global market exposure
and solutions
About the author:
None