What Is Juvenile Arthritis? Signs And Symptoms To Be Aware Of In Kids

From india.com

Juvenile arthritis (JA) refers to a group of chronic autoimmune diseases that affect children and adolescents, causing joint inflammation and stiffness. Here some common signs, symptoms and treatment that one must be aware of

Juvenile Arthritis is an autoimmune disease affecting nearly 1 out of 1000 children in India, making it the most common form of arthritis among those under 16. The condition leads to chronic pain, joint deformity, growth abnormalities, and difficulties in daily activities. Early diagnosis plays a vital role in improving treatment outcomes for Juvenile Arthritis. Identifying the condition at its onset allows for timely intervention, preventing long-term disabilities and joint damage in children. With prompt diagnosis, doctors can implement appropriate treatment strategies, including medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Signs And Symptoms

Children suffering from juvenile arthritis face numerous challenges, including chronic pain, joint stiffness, and reduced mobility, which can significantly impact their daily activities and participation in school and play. The physical limitations caused by the disease may lead to difficulties in walking, gripping objects, or engaging in physical activities with peers. Additionally, they may experience emotional challenges due to the stress of managing a chronic condition and potential social isolation. Moreover, Juvenile Arthritis can affect various body parts, such as the eyes, heart, lungs, and digestive tract, leading to additional health concerns that require careful monitoring and management.

Treatment

According to Dr. Somesh Virmani, Senior Consultant, Institute of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Orthopaedics, Medanta Gurugram, ”Parents must be vigilant and seek medical attention at the first sign of juvenile arthritis, as unchecked inflammation can lead to serious harm to the bones and joints. Parents or caregivers must provide support and understanding to help children cope with these difficulties.” Here are some necessary precautions that one can take:

•  Regular Medical Check-ups: Regular visits to the pediatrician, rheumatologist, pediatric orthopaedic surgeons and other specialists can help monitor the disease’s progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
• Medication Adherence: Ensuring that the child follows the prescribed medication schedule is essential for managing inflammation and pain effectively.Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in nutrients helps support bone health and overall well-being.
• Gentle Exercise: Engaging in gentle exercises and physical activities can help improve joint flexibility and strengthen muscles.
• Emotional Support: Dealing with a chronic condition can be emotionally challenging for children. Providing emotional support and open communication can help them cope better.
• Awareness and Education: Educating teachers, classmates, and friends about JA can foster understanding and create a supportive environment at school and during play.
• https://www.india.com/health/health-health/what-is-juvenile-arthritis-signs-and-symptoms-to-be-aware-of-in-kids-6196770/

Relieve Arthritis Pain Naturally: Embrace Anti-Inflammatory Foods For Your Joints

From slurrp.com

Discover the joy of reducing arthritis pain naturally with anti-inflammatory foods. Explore vibrant Indian ingredients and lively methods to create delicious meals that promote joint health and provide relief.

Welcome, fellow warriors against arthritis pain! If you're tired of relying solely on medications, we have a delicious and scientifically-backed solution for you. By incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, you can naturally reduce arthritis pain and boost your overall well-being. Let us take you on a flavourful journey through the diverse culinary landscape of India, sharing ingredients and lively methods to help you combat arthritis pain. So, let's get cooking and ease those achy joints! 

The Science Behind Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Before we dive into the tantalising world of anti-inflammatory foods, let's understand the scientific foundation behind their magic. Inflammation plays a pivotal role in arthritis pain, causing stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. Chronic inflammation in the body can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. However, certain foods possess powerful anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to the presence of various bioactive compounds.

These bioactive compounds, such as curcumin in turmeric, gingerols in ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish, exert anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. Additionally, antioxidants found in leafy greens and colourful spices help neutralise harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Turmeric, the Golden Wonder

Our first hero in the fight against arthritis pain is none other than turmeric. Curcumin, the primary active compound in turmeric, has shown promise in reducing joint inflammation and pain. Studies have demonstrated its ability to inhibit several inflammatory signalling pathways, providing relief to arthritis sufferers. To maximise its benefits, add a pinch of turmeric powder to your daily curries, soups, or stews. Enjoy a warm cup of turmeric-infused milk, commonly known as "haldi doodh," before bedtime for a soothing effect on your joints.

Ginger, the Zingy Ally

Next up, we have ginger, a zesty ingredient that adds a burst of flavour while fighting inflammation. Gingerols, the bioactive compounds found in ginger, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests that ginger can reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines, helping alleviate joint pain and swelling. Incorporate fresh ginger into your cooking by grating it into stir-fries, blending it into smoothies, or steeping it in hot water for a refreshing ginger tea.

The Leafy Green Brigade

Time to invite the leafy greens to the party! Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens are abundant in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them essential components of an anti-inflammatory diet. The antioxidants found in these greens, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, help neutralise free radicals and reduce inflammation. Including them in your meals by tossing them into salads, sautéing them as a side dish, or blending them into delicious green smoothies can provide significant anti-inflammatory benefits for your joints.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids, the Healthy Heroes

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, sardines), flaxseeds, and walnuts, have garnered attention for their potent anti-inflammatory effects. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), help reduce the production of inflammatory molecules in the body. They have been shown to alleviate joint tenderness and morning stiffness in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. Include omega-3-rich fish in your diet a couple of times a week or sprinkle ground flaxseeds onto your breakfast cereal or yoghourt. Snack on a handful of walnuts to give your joints a nutritious boost.

The Colourful Spice Rack

Indian cuisine boasts a vibrant array of spices, many of which possess remarkable anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and coriander not only enhance the flavour of your dishes but also provide anti-inflammatory benefits. For instance, cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, which has been shown to inhibit inflammatory responses in the body. So, infuse your curries, rice dishes, and lentil soups with these aromatic spices to give your arthritis pain a one-two punch of flavour and relief.

Arthritis pain doesn't have to dictate your life. By embracing the power of anti-inflammatory foods, backed by scientific evidence, you can reduce inflammation, manage pain, and savour the flavours of India simultaneously. Remember to consult with your healthcare professional and make gradual dietary changes. So, gather your ingredients, get creative in the kitchen, and embark on a flavourful culinary adventure that will support your joint health and overall well-being. Let your taste buds and your joints rejoice together!

https://www.slurrp.com/article/relieve-arthritis-pain-naturally-embrace-anti-inflammatory-foods-for-your-joints-1689367795386

Osteoarthritis And Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Expert Explains The Difference

From thehealthsite.com

Osteoarthritis is commonly affects older individuals, whereas rheumatoid arthritis can develop at any age

Arthritis is the result of cartilage wear and tear or joint damage, where two or three bones come together. To prevent bone-on-bone friction, there is a spongy cap called cartilage that allows smooth gliding between the bones. However, this cartilage can become damaged for various reasons. The two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

In this article, Dr. Ravikumar Mukartihal, Consultant Orthopaedic and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon, SPARSH Hospital, explains the differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as how these conditions are treated.

Osteoarthritis: Wear and Tear Degeneration

Osteoarthritis is characterized by the gradual wear and tear of cartilage over time, resulting from prolonged usage. As the two bones in a joint experience friction, the cartilage gradually thins and deteriorates. When the cartilage becomes too thin, the bones may touch the subcortical bone beneath it, leading to pain. This degenerative process occurs as a result of long-term wear and tear.

Osteoarthritis commonly affects women aged 55 and above, while males typically experience it at 60 years and older. This condition primarily affects loading joints such as the knees and hips, rarely occurring in the hands. Symptoms may include pain, limited joint movement, and stiffness, particularly in the morning.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Inflammatory Autoimmune Response

Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is not caused by cartilage wear and tear. Instead, it is triggered by inflammation. The synovial tissue, responsible for producing synovial fluid (a thick liquid located in between joints), becomes inflamed, reducing its flow. In certain instances, the body's immune system, altered by factors such as viral infections, fails to recognize its own tissues. Consequently, it produces an excess of anti-inflammatory cells and tissues, which attack the cartilage. Unlike primary arthritis, which is directly caused by cartilage wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is a secondary form. It occurs when our immune system releases chemicals due to its failure in recognizing its own tissues. This crucial difference distinguishes rheumatoid arthritis from osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis can develop at any age, spanning from 10 to 50 years. Patients with this condition often endure significant pain, morning stiffness, and, in some cases, joints may become bent in abnormal positions. Rheumatoid arthritis can involve small joints like those in the hands and feet.

Treatment Approaches for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

For osteoarthritis, treatment typically involves anti-inflammatory medication, lifestyle adjustments, dietary restrictions, weight management, and exercise. These measures can be effective until the condition progresses to stage 4, where joint replacement surgery becomes the only viable option.

In rheumatoid arthritis, weight reduction and similar measures are not as effective. Instead, the focus is on altering the immune system by reducing inflammation through anti-inflammatory medications and disease-modifying drugs like corticosteroids. These interventions are most successful before the cartilage sustains extensive damage. If the cartilage is severely damaged and pain and swelling persist, joint replacement surgery becomes necessary to achieve positive outcomes. When it comes to surgeries for osteoarthritis, it usually happens at the older age i.e above 55 years. Whereas, in rheumatoid arthritis, since it can happen at any age, the surgeries also happen relatively early like at the age of 35 years.

Once rheumatoid arthritis develops, it becomes a lifelong condition. Unlike other forms of arthritis, it does not go away on its own.

Osteoarthritis, commonly observed in older individuals, is caused by the natural wear and tear of cartilage. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a balanced diet, managing weight, and engaging in regular exercise can significantly delay the onset of osteoarthritis. In the early stages (1 and 2), physiotherapy is often the recommended treatment, while in more advanced stages (3 and 4), surgery may be necessary. This condition typically affects weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis can develop in younger age groups, ranging from 8 to 50 years old. This form of arthritis is characterized by joint inflammation and chemical changes that damage the cartilage, often affecting multiple joints. While lifestyle changes have limited impact on rheumatoid arthritis due to its immune system-driven nature, medication can effectively control inflammation in the early stages. In cases of severe arthritis, surgery becomes the primary option.

https://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/arthritis/osteoarthritis-and-rheumatoid-arthritis-an-expert-explains-the-difference-993888/

Yoga for arthritis

From uchealth.org

For people suffering from arthritis, everyday movement can feel daunting.

“If people have pain or feel stiff, often they do not want to move, walk or exercise, which can impact all areas of life. Pain can contribute to stress or anxiety, affecting the whole person physically and emotionally,” said Liz Leipold, an occupational therapist at UCHealth SportsMed Clinic in Steamboat Springs, who is also trained and certified as a yoga therapist.

But the gentle stretches and movements in yoga may help people with arthritis experience decreased pain and improved mobility, among other benefits.

Arthritis and your body

Arthritis is a condition that results in swelling and tenderness of one or more joints, causing symptoms such as pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common types of the disease, but there are more than 100 varieties.

“Yoga can offer a whole-person approach to help with health and wellness in so many different ways, from strengthening and improving flexibility, to helping balance the nervous system,” Leipold said. “Yoga may help improve movement of synovial and lymph fluids through the body, decrease inflammation, improve posture and balance, and strengthen the muscles around the joints.”

Those benefits may help increase mobility and strength while decreasing pain for people with arthritis.

Yoga may also help reduce stress. “When one has arthritis or any disease that can cause pain, stress or anxiety, the various breathing practices that are part of a yoga practice can help calm the nervous system,” Leipold said.

As someone with arthritis herself, Leipold has experienced the benefits of yoga first-hand.

“Yoga has definitely helped relieve my symptoms of pain, stiffness and inflammation,” Leipold said.

Besides the different types of yoga, classes include options in a yoga studio or the outdoors. Yoga can help people with arthritis reduce pain and increase their physical functioning. Photo: Getty Images.

Getting started with yoga

Before trying yoga, Leipold recommends checking with a health care provider or rheumatologist. But in most cases, people with arthritis can try gentle yoga using variations to fit their needs.

“It’s very, very important when one is doing yoga to not be in pain,” Leipold said. “If something isn’t comfortable, it’s okay to modify, vary a position or add a prop for better posture and comfort. There should never be pain or discomfort.”

Modifications to yoga sequences can be made so people don’t have to get on the floor.

“Some people will say, ‘I don’t do yoga because I can’t get up off the floor,’” Leipold said. “But we can do postures and movements sitting down in a chair, or using a chair for support, or even laying down supine in bed. Joint range of motion and breathing practices can be practiced in any position. Yoga meets you where you are.”

Helpful yoga poses for arthritis

Gentle range of motion exercises can be done systematically through all of the joints, from the ankles, knees and hips, to the spine and neck, including shoulders and fingers. “Gently moving the joints can improve flexibility as well as improve movement of synovial fluid, which helps to lubricate the joints,” Leipold said.

The mountain posture in standing or sitting is good for promoting upright spinal alignment and stability, which may help tone and strengthen muscles, improve breathing, and decrease pain.

Some yoga postures, such as a shoulder stand, should be avoided by people with spinal or neck arthritis. Many postures can be modified for safe and improved comfort with the use of props, such as walls, chairs, cushions and blocks. For instance, a folded blanket or knee pad can help cushion the knees when kneeling.

Leipold recommends finding a yoga class that is suited for your level or working directly with a certified yoga teacher, yoga therapist, physical therapist or occupational therapist to tailor a yoga and exercise routine that works for you.

Sometimes, one session is all it takes to start feeling the benefits.

“After the first session, some people might feel a little better,” Leipold said.

https://www.uchealth.org/today/yoga-for-arthritis/ 

Does knuckle cracking cause arthritis? Expert weighs in

From healthshots.com

Ever wondered if knuckle cracking is actually a cause of something serious like arthritis or is it just an old wives' tale? Let's separate fact from fiction and find out if knuckle cracking causes arthritis or not.

Do you love the sound of your knuckles cracking? From restlessness to pure pleasure, there is something about this habit that seems captivating. But have you ever wondered about the side effects of knuckle cracking? Your mother or grandmother must have stopped you from cracking knuckles telling you that it can make your fingers fat or it can make your bones weak. If these constant reminders have also made you wonder whether or not knuckle cracking leads to arthritis, read on.

Health Shots reached out to Dr Akhilesh Yadav, Associate Director – Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement, Max Hospital, Vaishali, Uttar Pradesh, to know if knuckle cracking increases your risk of developing arthritis or not.

Does knuckle cracking cause arthritis?

Arthritis is an umbrella term to refer to various types of conditions affecting joints and surrounding tissues, as per the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. It literally means joint inflammation and is usually characterised by inflammation, stiffness of joints, and decreased range of motion in the affected joints. While it affects people of all ages, it is more common in the elderly. Some of the most common types of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Now that we have understood the condition, let’s see if a habit like knuckle cracking can actually elevate your risk of developing it or not.

Are there any side effects of knuckle cracking

According to the orthopaedic, there are no known detrimental effects of knuckle cracking or arthritis or otherwise. While the sound may seem like you are actually cracking your knuckles, it’s nowhere near that. Dr Yadav says that the myth that knuckle cracking causes arthritis is one that has persisted for too long. There is no scientific research or any concrete evidence that proves otherwise. So, what exactly happens when you crack your knuckles? To put it simply, there are joints in your fingers and they contain synovial fluid, which helps lubricate these joints. Bubbles form naturally in your joints and when you stretch or crack your fingers, the bubbles release a gas due to a negative pressure that is formed.

In other words, “By moving the joints to extend them, the act of cracking the knuckles can momentarily widen the joint space and produce a vacuum effect. This results in the production of gas bubbles, which in turn provide cracking noise,” adds the expert.

That’s it! There is nothing more to knuckle cracking and it won’t cause arthritis. Neither will it make your fingers fat or anything that you have been hearing as a child.

Anything in excess can be harmful!

While we have learned that knuckle cracking doesn’t really lead to arthritis, it is important to note that excessive or severe knuckle cracking can cause some serious damage. It can harm your ligaments or joints, particularly if done repeatedly and forcefully over an extended period of time.

It is advised to refrain from routinely cracking your knuckles to maintain the general health of your joints, even though they may not result in arthritis, advises Dr Yadav.

https://www.healthshots.com/preventive-care/self-care/does-knuckle-cracking-cause-arthritis/ 

Effects of cod liver oil on people with arthritis pain

From ng.opera.news

Cod liver oil is a popular supplement that contains omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D. According to Medical News Today, here are the effects of cod liver oil on people with arthritis pain.

Reduced inflammation: Cod liver oil's omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA or eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA docosahexaenoic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce inflammation in the joints, potentially relieving arthritis pain and stiffness.

Joint pain relief: The anti-inflammatory effects of cod liver oil may contribute to reduced joint pain experienced by individuals with arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to help reduce pain and improve joint mobility.

Improved joint function: Omega-3 fatty acids present in cod liver oil have been associated with improved joint function and decreased disability in people with arthritis. They may help increase range of motion and reduce joint swelling, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities more comfortably.

Cartilage protection: Cod liver oil may have a protective effect on cartilage, which is essential for joint health. The omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver oil may help preserve cartilage integrity and slow down the progression of arthritis.

Vitamin D benefits: Cod liver oil is a natural source of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in bone health and immune function. Adequate vitamin D levels are important for individuals with arthritis, as it can help reduce symptoms and support overall well-being.

https://ng.opera.news/ng/en/health/7fb5672b41a621d9e28c351a08b7c226#google_vignette 

Your PsA Treatment Failed—Now What?

From healthcentral.com

Medications for psoriatic arthritis are rarely one and done. Here’s guidance on how to know it’s time for a change 

The right treatment plan is crucial to control symptoms of psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a chronic, inflammatory condition characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. But many people living with PsA don’t respond to first-line treatments prescribed by their rheumatologist at the time of diagnosis. “There is no single therapy that is best for everyone with psoriatic arthritis,” says Veronika Sharp, M.D., an affiliated clinical professor at Stanford University School of Medicine and chief of the division of rheumatology at Santa Clara Valley Healthcare in San Jose, CA. “Patients may have to try multiple medications to find the type that works best for them.”

Like many other autoimmune diseases, psoriatic arthritis comes with potentially debilitating and life-changing consequences due to the pain and challenges with physical activity. And although we have many more treatment options now than we did 20 years ago, none of them are curative.

Current guidelines from the American College of Rheumatology and the National Psoriasis Foundation advise the use of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor biologics, such as infliximab or adalimumab, as the first-line treatment for PsA. They suggest that people whose symptoms don’t improve with their first TNF inhibitor should try another TNF inhibitor.

But there is no one-size-fits-all approach for treating psoriatic arthritis. And if your first PsA treatment didn’t work, there are many reasons to stay hopeful. “There has been tremendous progress in treatment of psoriatic arthritis in the past few years,” says Dr. Sharp. “While doctors continue to use traditional disease modifying drugs (DMARDs) and TNF inhibitor biologics, which have been around for years, there are now a number of other therapies with different mechanisms of action, including several other classes of injectable biologics and new oral medications.”

Let’s dig into the second-round PsA treatments worth learning about.

                                                                                                                   GettyImages/puckons

Injectable Biologics

While there have been several new treatments for psoriatic arthritis approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within the last five years, Michelle T. T. Ngo, D.O., a rheumatologist with Providence St. Jude Heritage Medical Group in Fullerton, CA, highlights the IL-17 inhibitor and IL-23 inhibitor therapies—both injectable biologics—as “game changers.”

There are three IL-17 inhibitors approved by the FDA to treat psoriatic arthritis: secukinumab, ixekizumab, and brodalumab. They all work in the same way—by targeting the IL-17A receptor, they block its inflammatory pathway to help reduce inflammation and improve psoriatic arthritis symptoms.

As for IL-23 inhibitors, risankizumab was approved for the treatment of active PsA in adults in 2022. A phase 2 study of the biologic tildrakizumab, which also targets IL-23 and stops the release of inflammatory, showed a significant improvement of most joint- and skin-related symptoms (with few side effects), and phase 3 studies are currently ongoing. 

“These more targeted therapies essentially allow rheumatologists to get a handle on inflammation without blocking as much of the immune system that is important for cancer and infection detection,” Dr. Ngo explains.

Oral Medications

The newest class of drugs approved by the FDA to treat psoriatic arthritis is called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. These are taken daily in pill form and work in a more targeted way than traditional disease-modifying psoriatic arthritis treatment options, by blocking immune response pathways believed to be specific to PsA. This reduces the inflammation that fuels psoriatic arthritis (and other inflammatory diseases).

Most recently, upadacitinib was FDA-approved for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis in adults who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. The results of phase 3 trials were promising, with participants reporting improvements in joint pain and physical function.

Deucravacitinib, a new tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitor, works in a similar way to JAK inhibitors and appears to be as safe. Participants in a phase 2 study experienced symptom improvement, and phase 3 studies are currently ongoing.

Doubling Up on Biologics

Several case studies as well as promising findings from phase 2 clinical trials suggest that combining two biologics could be an alternative strategy to improve patient response to treatment.

Researchers working on the VEGA trial found that combining the IL-23 inhibitor guselkumab and the anti-TNF agent golimumab was more effective than either drug used alone as an initial treatment for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis—another autoimmune-driven condition—with almost no adverse side effects. The AFFINITY trial is now trying the same combination therapy for patients with active PsA.

Reports have also highlighted the possible benefits of combining a TNF inhibitor and an IL-17 inhibitor in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and PsA, as well as the combination of a TNF inhibitor and an IL-23 antagonist for PsA. However, these combinations require controlled clinical trials.

How to Know When It’s Time to Discuss a Change

Generally, doctors still follow a stepwise approach to treat PsA. “We recommend starting off with the less immunosuppressive therapies and working our way up systematically to protect our patients from the secondary side effects of autoimmune treatment, namely their increased risk for infections,” says Dr. Ngo. “Our focus in rheumatology is treating to target disease stability.”

If you’re trying a new med and not seeing results, be patient. “Often, it takes three to six months to see meaningful clinical change when we start a PsA patient on a new therapy, so it’s not uncommon to see flare ups during this time,” Dr. Ngo says. That’s because the origin and development involve many different mechanisms (including combinations of genetic and environmental factors), and scientists haven’t yet been able to pinpoint all the different genes involved in disease activity. As a result, it’s common for PsA patients to try multiple treatments before discovering the right pathway, says Dr. Ngo.

All medications come with possible side effects—in the psoriatic arthritis field these range from diarrhoea and nausea with oral meds to an increased risk of infections with biologics, per the Mayo Clinic. “Side effects are something we take seriously in rheumatology because of the multisystem effects of our medications,” says Dr. Ngo. “Routinely, we will counsel the common side effects that may come with treatment. Often, medications will have a ‘warming up’ period which may come with mild symptoms that gradually wane over the course of treatment, hopefully within two to four weeks.”

After four weeks, if any side effects are intolerable—to the point where they affect a patient's daily activities—Dr. Ngo says it would be reasonable to consider discussing other treatment options. “This is of course as long as there are no existing drug interactions or other underlying medical conditions which may prevent the rheumatologist from switching to another drug easily,” she adds. “We will treat to target and tailor the drugs to fit our patients' needs and we do so by having lengthy discussions and shared medical decision making.”

Side effects aside, if you’re not seeing an improvement in your symptoms after six to 12 months, Dr. Ngo believes it’s reasonable to take a step back and re-assess if other conditions may contribute to your symptoms.

Generally, if you’re having flare ups of your PsA symptoms that are longer, more frequent, or more severe than usual, it may be time to reassess your treatment plan. Working with your doctor will help you gain the best possible control over your condition.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriatic-arthritis/your-psa-treatment-failed-now-what

Can Weather Really Make Arthritis Symptoms Worse?

From verywellhealth.com

Key Takeaways

• People with arthritis have long asserted that the weather can worsen their symptoms.
• A new study found that low temperatures, high humidity, and high pressure do cause more pain.
• How and why this happens is still not entirely understood, and more research is needed to be able to develop effective drugs or interventions in this area.
  

A new study validates what many of us have long heard from friends and loved ones: that the weather can directly impact symptoms caused by osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis.

But existing research on the subject has been inconsistent, with some studies finding no association between the two and others finding a clear connection.

The new systematic review and meta-analysis, published in the Annals of Medicine, set out to explore the existing evidence to reach some kind of conclusion. Researchers found that 13 of 14 studies contained strong evidence that “weather factors in general, including any kind of meteorological condition, were associated with” osteoarthritis pain.

“From the perspective of external weather factors, low temperature, high humidity, and high pressure can cause pain,” Yuelong Cao, MD, a co-author of the study, told Verywell.

Barometric pressure, or the weight of the air, often decreases quickly when a storm or cold front blows through the area. That change in compression can irritate joints and cause already inflamed tissue to swell a little more in arthritis patients, according to John Schumann, MD, executive medical director at Oak Street Health, who treats older adults.

“That’s why a lot of patients with arthritis say they can feel the change of weather ‘in their bones,’” Schumann told Verywell.

The connection between air pressure and joint pain was validated in a study from 2019, which found a correlation between pain and relative humidity, air pressure, and wind speed, though it didn’t find a significant association between temperature and pain. A 2015 study, however, found that the daily average humidity and temperature significantly affected joint pain.

While external weather factors can evidently have an impact, Cao said the specific mechanism of weather affecting arthritis is complex, as it includes the weather itself, condition factors, and internal biological regulatory factors.

“From our other studies, regardless of the external meteorological conditions, weather-sensitive people with osteoarthritis have more severe symptoms and structural damage, which suggests that the human body’s biological regulatory factors play a role,” he said.

Photo Illustration by Zack Angeline for Verywell Health; Getty Images.

How to Adapt to Seasonal Changes

If you’re someone who notices that the weather has an impact on your joints, there are some things you can do to adapt.

“Most regions have frequent changes in weather and pressure, so there’s likely no way to avoid these side effects,” Schumann said. “However, if you’re able to keep warm, it may help. Light exercise, stretching, or a hot shower can keep your joints and muscles warm, which may reduce feelings of stiffness.”

Cao meanwhile said it’s a good idea to adjust your clothing and outdoor activities to avoid exposure to adverse weather factors as much as possible.

And while moving locations may seem drastic, some climates are definitely better than others when it comes to arthritis. This varies by individual, but research shows that a warmer, drier climate may be the best option, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

The Arthritis Foundation also maintains a Weather & Arthritis Index, which allows people to enter their ZIP code or location to see how the weather forecast and upcoming conditions could affect their pain level.

“There may be no way to change the weather,” Cao said. “But we do have ways to explore the biological mechanisms that regulate how it affects us to develop effective drugs or interventions in this area.”

What This Means For You

If the weather affects your joint pain, do your best to avoid too much exposure to whatever conditions have an impact on you by wearing light clothing and staying indoors when needed. You can also try light exercise, stretching, or a hot shower to keep your joints and muscles warm and reduce feelings of stiffness, and you can check The Arthritis Foundation’s Weather & Arthritis Index to see how the weather forecast and upcoming conditions could potentially affect your pain level.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-the-weather-really-worsen-arthritis-symptoms-7558079