Dear Readers

Ron T is a 72-year-old retired teacher who lives in Kingston. He suffers from osteoarthritis which his physician diagnosed seven years ago. Ron notices sometimes he feels almost no joint pains. At other time his prescribed medication does not help.

Sometimes he takes panadol, or no medication, and feels well. At other times the stronger medication (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) don't touch the pain. Ron asks if there is additional information he should have on how to minimise the pain sometimes experiences from the arthritis.

It would probably surprise most people to learn that there are perhaps more than 100 different types of arthritis! However, the two most common forms are osteroarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

What Ron T is experiencing, osteoarthritis, is the type of arthritis that comes with ageing and injury to joints. OA often results from wear and tear on the joints especially the knees, hips, fingers and spine.

significant pain

Many individuals experience only a mild discomfort but, as the cartilage which covers and protects the ends of the bones becomes worn and deteriorates, the person may experience significant pain, swelling and problems moving the joint.

With osteoarthritis the joints can become quite stiff and seize up, especially after physical activity. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis experienced and occurs more frequently as people age.

The other commonly experienced type of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, not only affects the joints, cartilage and bones, but can affect the entire body. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder which refers to the body's own defences turning against itself. It is much more commonly seen in women than men.

For mild arthritis pain, no matter the cause, over-the-counter medications (OTC), those available without prescription, can be taken to relive the pain. These OTCs preparations would include aspirin, acetamen ophen, paracetamol, and nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIOS) like Advil, Motrin and Aleve. It is surprising to note that some OTC drugs work better for pain relief in some individuals than even the prescribed drugs do so, it is always useful to try them out.

Prescription medication for the treatment of arthritis, most commonly involves the use of strong NSAIDS which help to reduce joint stiffness and more severe pain.

steroids

For individuals who have rheumatoid arthritis several other groups of medications are also prescribed to control the symptoms of this disorder. These drugs include steroids (prednisone) and disease-modifying drugs such as lefra, methotaxate, hydroxy-chlorquine (placquinil) and even gold.

Some people also experience a reduction in joint pain and stiffness when they rake glucosamine and chondritin preparations regularly with using high doses of omega 3 capsules and cod liver oil. It is now accepted that body weight, one's diet, and even vitamins, can affect the manifestation of arthritis in an individual.

The heavier the skeleton burden on the joints, the more rapid the progression of the osteoarthritis, so losing the burden of excess weight is a positive move in an arthritis person. Some people with rheumatoid arthritis will notice that a dietary change makes all the difference.

Reduction in caffeine intake (coffee and colas) and/or the elimination of animal protein (pork, beef, mutton) from the diet can result in significant pain reduction. Regular exercise also helps to relieve joint pains and stiffness, as well as reducing the risk of other age-related diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and high blood cholesterol.

Write to:

Lifeline

PO Box 1731

Kgn 8