Key to Sleeping Well

A good night sleep is the key to a healthy life.   By changing certain behaviors an individual can have good night sleep.

  

  

Maintain a Schedule - By going to sleep and waking up at the same time each day, it will be easier to fall asleep. However, it is better not to break this routine on weekends by staying up much later or sleeping late.

Don’t drink or eat too much- Too much food is tough to digest and may cause heartburns and too much liquid may result in frequent trips to bathroom that can interfere with sleep patterns.

Avoid intake of alcohol and nicotine-Drinking alcohol and smoking can interfere with sleep and cause frequent awakenings

No afternoon nap- It is better to stay away from those long naps during the day and just have a blissful sleep at night.  

Regular Exercise-By exercising regularly specially at afternoon it will be easier to fall asleep and sleep better. 

Environment- A room should be quiet, dark and well ventilated and at right temperature. Too much noise can make it difficult to sleep well.  By eliminating and masking theses noises and also by using earplugs it will be helpful to sleep well at night

Ginger - Treating Asthma

Ginger is one of the herbal remedies that have been used to treat the symptoms of asthma, and is also one of the well known herbs for cooking, which the root is used to spice foods.  This is a natural remedy that has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine. The plant is distinguished by its lance shaped leaves and white or yellow flowers.

Dried ginger is what is used to treat asthma symptoms and ginger is one of the herbals that scientists have looked at and found many compounds that have medicinal actions. These included compounds that can help treat asthma naturally.

When using ginger people with low blood pressure should speak with their physician before using this remedy. Taking large amounts of dried ginger can also cause gastro intestinal difficulties. There are no side effects when using ginger to treat asthma and there are no known drug interactions when using dried ginger.

Side effects of Asthma Inhaler

There are a few side effects that are posed by asthma inhalers. Asthma medications are meant for the lungs as they solve breathing problems. But when these medications are absorbed by other parts of the body, there will be some side effects. Thus using an asthma inhaler keeps most of the side effects away as the medication is delivered to the lungs directly. Thus some of the side effects of asthma medications like increased heart rate and stomach upset. are rarely seen in case of patients using asthma inhalers. 

But some patients might face certain side effects like: 

• Dizziness
• High blood pressure
• Fevers 
• Problems in vision
• Chest pain 

If these are seen it is better to talk to the doctor so that he can take the necessary steps.

Some common side effects of using asthma inhalers that do not require medical attention are itching, fatigue, headache and cough. Sometimes, the side effects are not merely of suing the asthma inhalers. It might be because of a few possible drug interactions. In such a case, it is vital to talk to the doctor about the medications that you are already taking. It is worth noting that Beta blockers, Diuretics, antidepressants might have serious drug interactions with asthma medications.

Kids Asthma Causes

Many factors can lead to asthma in children; for example: environmental triggers, genes and asthma history of the family, diet, infections, allergies and hormonal changes. 

Here is a brief overview of these factors:

1. Asthma runs in families. If somebody in the family has asthma, the child is likely to get it too. Hay fever and eczema have also been linked to asthma.
2. Children with smoking mothers or those exposed to cigarette smoke are likely to develop asthma.
3. Asthma can occur at any age. Exposure to certain trigger substances like pollens, smoke, dust, animal hair, fungus and dust mites can cause asthma attacks. Flu and cold are also highly responsible for asthma attacks.
4. Strong smells, chemical fumes, household sprays, paints and perfumes are likely to trigger an attack.
5. Exercise and play, emotional reactions like laughing can serve as triggers.
6. Environment plays a big role. Sudden changes in temperature are responsible for asthma in kids.
7. Food colorings, additives, medications can also be potentially dangerous.
8. There is an ongoing speculation that obesity too might lead to asthma. Pollution and exertion or exercise can also reinforce the cause behind asthma. Care must be taken to protect asthmatic kids from these factors.

Which Vitamins Help with Healthy Hair?

In order to have rich, lustrous and healthy hair one should have a good supplement of, Vitamin B3, B, B6, B5, sulfur and zinc. Vitamin B deficiency results in hair loss.

Important vitamins for hair are: Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B5 and B12.

Vitamin A promotes health in scalp. It is found in meat, cabbage, apricots, eggs, carrots, cheese, peaches, spinach and milk

Vitamin E is helpful in blood circulation in scalp. It is found in wheat germ oil, green leafy vegetables, nuts, dried beans, raw seeds, vegetable oils and soybeans.

Vitamin C provides a lot of nutrition for hair. Foods consisting of vitamin c are pineapple, leafy green vegetables, green peppers, kiwi, citrus fruits, potatoes and cantaloupe.

Vitamin B3 like vitamin E helps in scalp blood circulation. One can find brewer’s yeast, wheat germ, chicken, meat, turkey and fish.

Vitamin B5 helps strengthen hair and stop hair fall. It is also known as Calcium Pantothenate. Foods that contain this vitamin are egg yolks, organ meats, milk, whole grain cereals, potatoes and brewer’s yeast.

Vitamin B6 is known to prevent hair fall and help in secretion of melanin giving a healthy color to hair. It can be obtained from whole grain cereals, brewer’s yeast, egg yolk and organ meats. 

Vitamin B12prevents hair fall and is found in fish, eggs, milk and chicken. 

Searching for Vitamin B  click here

Which Foods Contain B Vitamins?

Foods that are rich source of vitamin B are

tuna, beer, liver, bananas, Brazil nuts, legumes, oats, potatoes, carrots, eggs, onions, cabbage, cucumbers, cauliflower etc. 

If you have a balanced diet and include these things in your regular meals that there will never be vitamin B deficiency. But vitamin B being a water soluble vitamin, it is important to supply it regularly. B vitamins are actually a group of eight vitamins. Each vitamin has its contribution in the smooth functioning of the body. 

You can’t rely on just one or two members of group. You can achieve physical well-being only if you effectively consume all the members of B vitamins group. And that will be possible if you rely on whole foods, natural foods and some items included in non vegan diet. You will have to add variety to your diet so that you can get benefit of all the B vitamins. B1 is found in legumes, green vegetables and eggs where as B2 is found in milk, cheese and meat. Peanuts and potatoes are rich in B3. Poultry foods, milk and yogurt have ample of B12. You must make a diet plan which covers all the B vitamins so that you get a wholesome meal full of nutrients. 

If you are deficient in B vitamins then you may have symptoms like chronic exhaustion, nervousness, heart beat irregularity, depression, problems in concentrating, insomnia, irritability etc. And when vitamin B complex deficiency becomes chronic it leads to major health problems in the long run.  

Sleep Disorder - What is Nocturnal Myoclonus?

Nocturnal myoclonus is where the patient suffers from rapid and recurrent jerking-like movements of the lower extremities.

The rapid movements are usually accompanied by a burning, tingling sensation. This can occur while the victim is asleep, as well as when the victim is awake, but the symptoms usually worsen when a person is trying to rest. Nighttime shows a greater increase in the frequency of nocturnal myoclonus. Moving the affected muscles gives a sense of relief which is however, temporary. 

 

It is only in very rare cases that the cause of nocturnal myoclonus could be determined. Most cases point to problems regarding a neurotransmitter known as dopamine, being the reason. Nocturnal myoclonus can also be caused as a side-effect of certain drugs like levodopa, cyclic antidepressants and salts of bismuth. Diseases like Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, thyroid disease and uremia provokes further nocturnal myoclonus, while conditions like pregnancy have been known to aggravate it further as well.  Nocturnal myoclonus is similar to Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) but different from seizures. A seizure is when the patient suffers due to electrical discharges from the brain unlike nocturnal myoclonus. 

Since nocturnal myoclonus can lead to serious problems with sleep disorders, it can be diagnosed. Tetrabenazine is one such drug used.

Health Benefits Of Guava

If you have a natural liking for guavas or if your dietician or doctor has prescribed this seasonal fruit to you, then you should feel lucky! This mouth-watering treat comes with immense health benefits. Being rich in dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, potassium, copper and manganese, they are often included among superfruits.

Guava fruit, usually 5 to 10 cm (2-4 inches) long, are round or pear shaped depending on the variety. It bears a green, yellow or maroon cover while the inside of the fruit features the white ("white" guavas) or pink ("red" guavas) fleshy part containing many small, hard seeds. There are many varieties of guava that are grown for their fruit, including Psidium guajava (apple guava), Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava), and Psidium friedrichstahlium. The most frequently encountered variety, and the one often simply referred to as “the guava”, is the Apple Guava.

Guava with its sweet smell can be taken raw or you can even enjoy guava jams and jellies with fresh bread slices! Whatever might be the mode of intake, guava, being a storehouse of nutrients, would provide many health benefits. 

Here are the health conditions which are targeted by the nutrients present in guava:

1. Cancer Prevention: Guava is an excellent source of the cancer-fighting antioxidant, lycopene. Lycopene in guava is more easily absorbed by our body than lycopene from tomato becuase of the difference in the cell structure that allows the antioxidant to be absorbed whether the fruit is raw or cooked. Lycopene consumption is associated with significantly lower rates of prostate cancer, and it has also been found to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. Lycopene promotes good health by acting against the influence of “free radicals”, which can damage cells and can contribute to developing cancer and coronary heart disease. All varieties of guava are loaded with antioxidants but the one with the red flesh type contains more than the white-fleshed apple guava.
2. High Blood Pressure: Guava, being hypoglycemic in nature (if taken without skin) and fiber rich, helps in decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This makes guavas highly beneficial for those at risk for heart disease and hypertension. Also, a medium guava (165 gm) provides you with 20 percent of the recommended daily value (DV) for potassium. Studies have shown that people who consume more potassium have lower blood pressures than those who consume less.
3. Diarrhea: Guava has proved to be beneficial to individuals suffering from Diarrhea. Guava has astringents (chemical compound that tends to shrink or constrict body tissues, for example compounds those make your gums feel tighter and fresh after you eat a raw guava), which are helpful in binding up loose stools during the conditions of diarrhea. These alkaline compounds display antibacterial properties and have the ability to prevent microbial growth during dysentery. Other disinfectants present in guava include Carotenoids, Vitamin C and Potassium. These properties and ingredients of guava also support healing in cases of gastroenteritis.
4. Cough and Cold: The decoction of guava leaves or the juices of raw or immature guavas bring relief to individuals suffering from cough and cold. This can be attributed to the astringent properties of guava juice. The juice works by loosening the cough, decreasing mucus and by making the respiratory tract, throat and lungs infection-free. Guava is also rich in vitamin C and iron, which provide protections against cold and viral infections.
5. Skin Care: The astringents of guava enhance the skin texture and tighten loosened skin. In fact, guava works more effectively than any other skin nourishing lotions in the market. Decoction of immature leaves and fruits can be applied on the skin for tightening and toning purposes. Additionally, guava has high contents of vitamin A, vitamin C and Potassium, which are characterized by their antioxidant functions. These nutrients carry out detoxification processes and keep the skin healthy and wrinkle-free.
6. Constipation: High amount of dietary fiber present in guava helps prevent constipation. A medium guava provides you with 36 percent of the recommended daily value for dietary fiber. Also, the seeds of guava are very effective laxatives. Both these attributes help in the formation of bowels and the cleaning up of the excretory system.
7. Diabetes: According to a study conducted on rats, both the guava fruit and its leaves can help diabetic patients by lowering their blood glucose levels. However, if consumed along with its skin, it can be bad for your blood sugar. According to the research published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research and conducted by researchers at the Medicinal Research Laboratory of the University of Allahabad, blood sugar levels in rats injected with guava peel extract rose by 91% in sub-diabetic rats within two hours of administration and by 27% in normal rats after eight hours of administration. So, the best way to consume a guava for diabetics is to peel off its skin.
8. Weight Loss: Guava forms an essential component of a weight loss diet. Guava is rich in fiber, proteins and vitamins and this implies that individuals looking to lose weight would not have to compromise on their intake of these nutrients! Guava with no cholesterol and low carbohydrates, can still offer a feeling of fullness. A medium sized guava for lunch is enough to supply nutrition till dinner. Again, guava can help thin people gain weight. This can be attributed to its nutrients which aid in the better absorption process of the body.
9. Scurvy: The Vitamin C content of a common guava (apple guava) is about four times than what we find in an orange. Thus, guavas are effective remedies for scurvy, which is characterized by swollen and bleeding gums due to deficiency of Vitamin C.
10. Dental Care: The juice of the guava leaves containing astringents and vitamins is a remedy for toothaches, swollen gums and ulcers of the mouth.

There is no limit of explaining the health benefits of guava. Remember, it is a seasonal fruit! So just take care to have enough of these fruits during the peak season, summer! The nutrients consumed in the season would help to fight many health conditions for the entire year!

Apple Nutrition chart

                     Apple Raw with skin

USDA Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 14 (July 2001)

Scientific Name:     Malus sylvestris

NDB No:     09003

Nutrient	Units	Value per 100 grams of edible portion	Sample Count	Std. Error
Proximates
Water	g	83.93	126	0.189
Energy	kcal	59	0
Energy	kj	247	0
Protein	g	0.19	119	0.003
Total lipid (fat)	g	0.36	35	0.039
Carbohydrate, by difference	g	15.25	0
Fiber, total dietary	g	2.7	0
Ash	g	0.26	116	0.005
Minerals
Calcium, Ca	mg	7	34	0.519
Iron, Fe	mg	0.18	119	0.019
Magnesium, Mg	mg	5	114	0.100
Phosphorus, P	mg	7	114	0.232
Potassium, K	mg	115	74	2.561
Sodium, Na	mg	0	47	0.064
Zinc, Zn	mg	0.04	15	0.007
Copper, Cu	mg	0.041	119	0.002
Manganese, Mn	mg	0.045	119	0.003
Selenium, Se	mcg	0.3	7	0.076
Vitamins
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid	mg	5.7	25	0.766
Thiamin	mg	0.017	6	0.000
Riboflavin	mg	0.014	6	0.001
Niacin	mg	0.077	6	0.028
Pantothenic acid	mg	0.061	6	0.004
Vitamin B-6	mg	0.048	7	0.004
Folate, total	mcg	3	23	0.611
Folic acid	mcg	0	0
Folate, food	mcg	3	23	0.611
Folate, DFE	mcg_DFE	3	0
Vitamin B-12	mcg	0.00	0
Vitamin A, IU	IU	53	6	11.878
Vitamin A, RE	mcg_RE	5	6	1.188
Vitamin E	mg_ATE	0.320	0
Tocopherol, alpha	mg	0.32	0
Lipids
Fatty acids, total saturated	g	0.058	0
4:0	g	0.000	0
6:0	g	0.000	0
8:0	g	0.000	0
10:0	g	0.000	0
12:0	g	0.001	1
14:0	g	0.002	1
16:0	g	0.048	4
18:0	g	0.007	4
Fatty acids, total monounsaturated	g	0.015	0
16:1 undifferentiated	g	0.001	1
18:1 undifferentiated	g	0.014	4
20:1	g	0.000	0
22:1 undifferentiated	g	0.000	0
Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated	g	0.105	0
18:2 undifferentiated	g	0.087	4
18:3 undifferentiated	g	0.018	4
18:4	g	0.000	0
20:4 undifferentiated	g	0.000	0
20:5 n-3	g	0.000	0
22:5 n-3	g	0.000	0
22:6 n-3	g	0.000	0
Cholesterol	mg	0	0
Phytosterols	mg	12	0
Amino acids
Tryptophan	g	0.002	1
Threonine	g	0.007	2
Isoleucine	g	0.008	2
Leucine	g	0.012	2
Lysine	g	0.012	2
Methionine	g	0.002	2
Cystine	g	0.003	1
Phenylalanine	g	0.005	2
Tyrosine	g	0.004	2
Valine	g	0.009	2
Arginine	g	0.006	2
Histidine	g	0.003	2
Alanine	g	0.007	2
Aspartic acid	g	0.034	2
Glutamic acid	g	0.020	2
Glycine	g	0.008	2
Proline	g	0.007	2
Serine	g	0.008	2
Other
Caffeine	mg	0	0
Theobromine	mg	0	0

Tuberculosis - causes and treatment

The most common cause for tuberculosis to manifest in the human body is low immunity. Lifestyle habits, poverty, personal choices and low awareness create situations for the disease to enter the body and spread. Tuberculosis may also come about due to pre-existing conditions that allow for its development. The awareness of actions and the possibility of developing tuberculosis can help large masses stay clear of the disease.

Low Weight

Poor countries have a high incidence of tuberculosis because of the low availability of nutritious food and poor sanitation in the surrounding areas. Research has shown a higher chance of tuberculosis for people with a low BMI – below 18.5. In some extreme cases of anorexia, that involves the loss of weight with extreme dietary restrictions, tuberculosis may appear when there is another infection that places excess stress on the human body. If you have people who fall in this category of weight as a result, it is advisable to contact an agency to visit the location to check and advice about the presence and prevention of spreading the disease.

Drug abuse

People with a history of drug abuse suffer from reduced immunity and have a higher risk of having unsafe sex. The unwitting sharing of needles and the possibility of developing tuberculosis are closely related. Tuberculosis may affect patients of HIV because their immunity is compromised. Added to this, the absence of awareness of the disease and the risk of spreading increase the possibility of transmission from person to person. Latent tuberculosis is another danger that causes the person carrying the germ to continue without symptoms while others who come in close physical contact develop the disease. Avoidance of dangerous habits is necessary to counter the ailment.

Lifestyle

A high-risk lifestyle that involves frequent sexual encounters with different partners, living in crowded surroundings, carers for patients with tuberculosis. Lack of regular exposure to sunlight, poor sanitation facilities and the absence of good hygiene standards are precursors to this disease as are frequent travel to locations with a high incidence of the disease, alcoholism with weakened liver function and poverty are the common causes for the development of tuberculosis. Some patients are carriers and do not develop the disease since their bodies have developed the immunity against it whereas they can spread the disease. It is necessary for communities that living in crowded conditions to ensure that each person is checked for this. Carriers must be trained to avoid certain behaviors that can lead to the spread of the ailment.

Ignorance

The commonest reason for the disease to reach dangerous proportions is the ignorance regarding the developing symptoms and precautions to stem the spread. Lack of isolation of the tuberculosis patient and the complete avoidance out of fear of being infected are both extremes that almost reduce the viability of successful treatment. The patient must be provided nutritious food that may be beyond the reach of the family. The only way to guard against the spread of the disease is with vigilance about the possibility of its symptoms, community awareness of managing the patient and sensitivity towards patients.

How to Prevent and Manage Arthritis Pain Tips

If you suffer from arthritis, pain becomes a part of your life. Even those who have dealt with arthritis for years, still suffer. With arthritis, the pain is more than physical. It is emotional too. Help must be sought.

If you suffer from arthritis, you want pain relief. In fact, you may want it now. Yes, it is important to seek pain relief, but first look at the cause. When seeking relief, you want more than temporary relief. The best approach is to stop pain before it starts. How? Luckily, you have many options.

Exercise. Exercise is vital to create a strong and healthy body. Not only that, it can relieve and prevent the pain associated with arthritis. Those suffering from severe pain, often left their symptoms go untreated. Their joints are so stiff that it literally hurts to move. If you have reached this point, it will take time. If not, start the process now. Exercise results in joint movement, lessening the stiffness and the pain overtime. It also builds muscle strength. This strength provides the joints with protection, lessening the pressure and pain.

Wise use of joints. Those who suffer from severe forms of arthritis suffer every minute of the day. They wake up and feel pain. In fact, a full night’s sleep may be near impossible. Prevent joint pain by wisely using your joints and muscles. Do you suffer from arthritis in your elbows or hips? If so, lessen the strenuous activity that requires these joints. Instead of lifting heavy boxes with your arms, lift with the entire body. Instead of turning only the upper part of the body at the hips, reposition the entire body to get a good look.

Sleep. As previously stated, sleep can be difficult for those suffering from severe pain. A good night’s sleep is vital to preventing pain. The energy the body receives from sleep can ward off pain or lessen its severity. If your nights are restless, sleep whenever possible. This may involve afternoon naps, but the payoff is worth it. A well-rested and well-energized body is able to ward off pain and manage it better.

Do not load up on pain medication. Unfortunately, those who suffer from pain, whether it be arthritis or not, rely on pain relievers. Some reach the point where they take medication before pain even sets it. It will arrive eventually, so why wait. Do not take this approach, unless advised by a medical professional. The body grows dependant on the medication we ingest. It is easy to become addicted to over-the-counter pain medication. To prevent pain, exercise, eat healthy, and get a good night sleep. Wait until the pain arrives before turning to over-the-counter medication.

Speaking of when the pain arrives, you now know how to prevent arthritis pain, but what if you still feel it? The above mentioned steps prevent some from experiencing severe pain, but there are no guarantees. Our bodies are all different. If your attempts prove unsuccessful, the next step is management. You need to learn to manage your pain. Pain management will allow you to function from day-to-day.

Reduce stress and relax. There is no doubt that arthritis sufferer’s deal with pain. This is a proven fact. However, our bodies play a huge role in the impact it has on our lives. A positive outlook on life will help. The less you focus on your pain, the less you will feel. Relaxation is key too. Does a warm bath relax your body and sooth your joint pain? If so, fill up the bathtub, add scented bubbles, and turn on your favorite music.

Get a massage. Most patients are surprised to hear their physicians recommend massages. Most assume they will be loaded with pain relievers and sent homes. Yes, over-the-counter relievers do assist with pain, but so does a good old massage. It relaxes the body and mind. Massages also warm the body and promote movement. In some cases, regular massages can help to prevent pain.

As you can see, there are many ways to avoid and manage the pain associated with arthritis. In fact, these are just a few of your options. No matter what type of arthritis you suffer from or how severe the symptoms, know you are not alone and that relief is available.

Home Remedies for Arthritis Pain Relief

Do you suffer from arthritis? If so, the relief of symptoms is vital. Your ability to function day-to-day depends on your ability to prevent joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as treat it. 

The good news is that most can do this right from the comfort of their own home! Home remedies do vary. Not everyone sees relief from their arthritis symptoms, but you usually have nothing to lose by trying. So, which home remedies for arthritis relief should you try?

Epsom salt baths. Epsom salts main component is magnesium. It has long been used as a way to seek pain relief. To seek that relief, prepare a warm bath and add in epsom salt. Use the package to determine the appropriate mixture. The magnesium in the salt will help to reduce inflammation, resulting in pain relief and decreased swelling. The warm water calms the body and improves circulation. Pain relief is likely. Continued epsom salt baths not only relieve pain, but help to prevent it too.

Epson salt sprays. As previously stated, epsom salt baths can reduce the pain associated with arthritis. Unfortunately, those with disabilities or the inability to fully move may have difficulty settling into a bathtub. In these instances, epsom salt sprays are an ideal and convenient alternative. Take a spray bottle and fill with water. Use the salt package to determine how much salt should be added. Spray onto your unclothed body and rub. This mixture can be applied anytime of the day, but it is best to do after a warm shower.

Apple cider vinegar drink mixtures. For many arthritis patients, apple cider vinegar not only results in pain relief, but increased mobility. Mix up to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a large cup of water. You can also add honey for extra sweetness. Drink once or twice a day. Apple cider vinegar is acidy and it has a sour taste; always mix with water.

Apple cider vinegar soaking mixtures. In addition to drinking a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water, you can also create a soaking mixture. This is ideal if you want to target a specific area of your body and get immediate pain relief. Mix cup of apple cider vinegar, with around one or two liters of water. Warm and soak. For large areas, soak a washcloth or towel in the mixture and apply to your achy joints.

Low-impact exercises. With arthritis, there is always the risk of complications. The risk of severe joint stiffness and deformities can be reduced with low-impact exercises. For many arthritis patients, stretching is enough of a workout. If you are overweight, lose weight. It lessens the pressure placed on joints. Low impact exercises include dancing around the house or walking around the block.

Foods with anti-inflammatory benefits. Did you know that some foods can reduce the pain and swelling associated with arthritis? Some can. These foods include fresh pineapples, fresh cherries, cayenne pepper, and sesame seeds. Although there is little to no proof to backup these claims, many arthritis patients have been eating these foods for years and recommend them.

The above mentioned home remedies are just a few of your many options. Your best bet is to purchase a home remedy book, available for sale online or in most bookstores. Look for any remedies that treat pain, discomfort, depression, difficulty sleeping, and inflammation.

Some Common Types of Arthritis and Treatment Options

Do you or someone you know suffer from arthritis? It is a common disease, you likely do. What type? Only a doctor can tell, but there are over 100 different types of arthritis. Despite this large number, they typically fall into two categories.

1. Osteoarthritis 

This disease is most commonly found in men and women over the age of 65. It is also known as degenerative arthritis. This name comes from the progression of the disease. It beings with cartilage breakdown. The cartilage covering the bones degenerates and wears away. Essentially, sufferers have exposed bones. These bones then rub against each other, causing severe pain and discomfort. Many also experience difficultly moving.

The most noticeable symptom of osteoarthritis is joint pain. Stiffness is common the morning and after movement. All joints can be impacted by osteoarthritis, but the most common are the hips, feet, back, knees, and fingers. Those with arthritis problems in the hands and feet may find it difficult to walk without a limp and grasp otherwise easy objects.

As with most types of arthritis, there is not just one cause for osteoarthritis. There are many contributing factors. These include body weight, previous injuries, and genes. Although osteoarthritis typically affects the elderly, athletes who repeatedly use the same joints and suffer injury are at an increased risk. As for body weight, the joints and muscle surrounding them carry most of the bodys weight; more weight applies more pressure. Although rare, there are defects that can lead to osteoarthritis. These include a lack of protein that makes up cartilage and the poor fitting of bones and joints.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis 

Rheumatoid arthritis affects over one million people in the United States. It does not discriminate, as individuals of all ages are susceptible to the disease. In fact, there are three types of rheumatoid arthritis for juveniles alone. The cause? The immune system is supposed to protect our body, but in some cases it does the exact opposite. With rheumatoid arthritis, it attacks the joint lining membrane.

The most noticeable symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is pain. If untreated, other complications can arise. The most common is disability. To prevent this from happening, all patients are urged to exercise their joints and muscles, even though it may be painful at first. Another common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation. The swelling can be mild to severe. In most instances, this is what separates rheumatoid arthritis from other forms. Swelling and inflammation is likely, but it is much more prominent and debilitating.

Luckily, rheumatoid arthritis suffers rarely experience constant pain. The disease flares up from time to time. These flare ups are trigged by joint overuse and certain foods. As for the cause, it is currently unknown. There are however many theories. One is being genes. 

3. Fibromyalgia 

Although not always classified as a form of arthritis, fibromyalgia is an arthritis related condition. This disease affects over three million people in the United States. That number is actually higher, but some patients are misdiagnosed.

The most noticeable symptom of fibromyalgia is muscle pain. There are also tender spots in the muscle and body that are more susceptible to pain and pressure. Additional symptoms include headaches, bladder problems, difficulty thinking, fatigue, and sleep difficulty.

While researchers have yet to determine a connection, a good percentage of those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis later develop fibromyalgia. It wasn’t bad enough that your joints hurt, but now the muscles in your body too? Additional causes may be related to prior injuries. Some studies have shown that those with previous injuries are more likely to develop the disease. Many experts believe the change in muscles, due to injury, can later lead to chronic pain and fibromyalgia.

Now that you are familiar with some of the most common types of arthritis, what comes next? If you or someone who you know suffers from arthritis, medical care is important. A proper diagnosis is important to developing the best treatment option. Low impact exercise can loosen the joints and strengthen the surrounding muscles. This not only eliminates joint stiffness, but it can later prevent disability and deformities.

Finally, some pain can be treated, but it will reoccur. Those suffering from arthritis need to learn how to manage their pain. This involves not focusing too much on it, eliminating stress, asking for help, getting a good night sleep, and learning how to calmly relax.