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A medication used widely in treating rheumatoid arthritis is out of stock due to a rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations, affecting patients in the U.S. and Utah. (Adam Sotelo, KSL-TV)

SALT LAKE CITY A medication used widely in treating rheumatoid arthritis is out of stock due to a rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations, affecting patients in the U.S. and Utah.

Sharon Greenwood, of Utah County, was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis when she was just 12 years old.

"There is no cure," Greenwood said. "Even if (arthritis) gets in your jaw, then eating is a problem because you can't chew."

Decades later and a dozen or so failed treatments, Greenwood finally has a medication that works for her tocilizumab, known by the brand name Actemra. She has been using the treatment for 10 years.

"Without it, the pain is completely debilitating," Greenwood explained.

However, Greenwood says her monthly treatment is now out of reach.

"I went in for my treatment on Wednesday with the hospital," Greenwood said that's when her nurse at Intermountain American Fork Hospital told her there was a major shortage.

"Apparently, just that morning, the drug had been called in. The nurses were told they were not to use it for anyone because it was being confiscated and gathered up to be sent to a central location," Greenwood said.

Greenwood said she was one of the last rheumatoid arthritis patients to get their treatment.

"The nurse apparently had my drug in her hand and the pharmacist said 'No, we have to take that,' and she said 'No, our patient is here waiting for it,'" she said.

#EXCLUSIVE- "There's no guarantee," Hundreds of patients... are out of crucial treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, Actemra. @genentech says surge in #COVID19 hospitalizations is to blame for unsatiable demand...& it's affecting Utahns like Sharon Greenwood. Story now on @KSL5TVpic.twitter.com/CbQz5nPGHI

Greenwood said nurses told her the drug was going to be reserved for COVID-19 and possibly cancer patients as the delta variant fuels a surge in virus cases and hospitalizations.

"They told me they were hoping to have more come in in about 4-6 weeks, which will be around the time I have my next appointment, but there's no guarantee," Greenwood said, explaining that she is worried about the possibility of not getting her next treatment.

On June 24, the FDA issued an emergency use authorization for Actemra to treat COVID-19 patients in hospitals, including adults and kids age 2 and older.

"The EUA is based on results from four randomized, controlled studies that evaluated Actemra for the treatment of COVID-19 in more than 5,500 hospitalized patients. The results of these studies suggest that Actemra may improve outcomes in patients receiving corticosteroids and requiring supplemental oxygen or breathing support," said a company spokesperson for Genentech, the U.S. manufacturer of Actemra.

Genentech is the sole manufacturer and supplier of the drug in the U.S. Its parent company, Roche, manufactures the drug outside of the U.S.

However, despite efforts to ramp up production, Genentech confirmed in a written response to KSL, "they're experiencing a temporary stock out" of the drug in the U.S. since Aug. 16.

A company spokesperson added they expect to receive scheduled replenishments by the end of August. However, they warned, if the pandemic continues to spread at its current pace, there could be more shortages in weeks and months ahead.

"The dramatic emergence of the COVID-19 delta variant, as well as the unexpected slowing of vaccination rates in the U.S., has led to an overwhelmingly high incidence of COVID-19 hospitalizations in certain areas of the country. This new wave of the pandemic has led to Genentech experiencing an unprecedented demand for Actemra IV well-over 400% of pre-COVID levels over the last two weeks alone and it continues to increase," said Lindsey Mathias, senior manager of Genentech corporate relations.

In the meantime, Greenwood said her doctor and nurses told her the drug is being stockpiled and rationed priority is going to COVID-19 patients.

"For me, it's about quality of life. But for them, it's a matter of life or death, and so it does need to go to them first because they are the greater need," Greenwood said.

Nevertheless, Greenwood said the situation underscores the impact of others' choice not to be vaccinated as Intermountain experts have previously stated 90% of hospitalized COVID-19 patients are unvaccinated.

"Unless you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, you may never know that choosing not to be vaccinated is affecting people like me," Greenwood said, "My hope is that people would choose wisely."

The World Health Organization, in conjunction with UnitAid, released a statement last week calling on the company to ensure equal access to the medicine and look for ways to increase global supplies.

KSL's Garna Mejia is also in contact with Intermountain Healthcare, Greenwood's health care provider, for more information on what exactly the supply shortage looks like in Utah. An update is expected later this week.

The most updated information on the U.S. supply of Actemra can be found here, while information on world supplies can be found here.

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Drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and COVID-19 in short supply - KSL.com

TUESDAY, Aug. 24, 2021 (HealthDay News) -- Worse functional status and increased probability of functional decline are seen for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with lower socioeconomic status (SES), according to a study published online Aug. 4 in JAMA Network Open.

Zara Izadi, M.Pharm., from the University of California in San Francisco, and colleagues examined the association between SES and functional status in patients with RA using data from the American College of Rheumatology's Rheumatology Informatics System for Effectiveness registry. Data were included for 83,965 patients with a confirmed RA diagnosis who were seen at participating rheumatology practices.

The researchers found that the mean functional status score was worse at lower SES levels for all measures (e.g., Multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire quintile 1 and 5: 1.79 and 2.43, respectively). The probability of functional decline was 14.1 and 18.9 percent in the highest and lowest SES quintile, respectively, in longitudinal analyses. Disease activity partially mediated the association between SES and functional decline (7 percent).

"We found important disparities in functional status by SES in a national cohort of individuals with RA, despite utilization of rheumatology care," the authors write. "Future qualitative research is important to further our understanding of factors that affect functional status, including factors outside of medical care that can be intervened on."

Several authors disclosed financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry.

Abstract/Full Text

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Poverty Tied to Worse Functional Status in Rheumatoid Arthritis - HealthDay News

In the United States, 100,000-300,000 patients die from venous thromboembolism (VTE) each year, with more than 500,000 people related hospitalizations. While in Europe, 500,000 people die from VTE each year. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are at increased risk of VTE. The use of biologics in patients with rheumatoid arthritis may be associated with an increased risk of VTE. We identified all patients who had been newly approved for Catastrophic Illness Card of rheumatoid arthritis extracted the claims data from the National Health Insurance research database and Registry for Catastrophic Illness Patient Database from 2003 to 2016. VTE was defined as the presence of inpatient VTE diagnostic codes (including DVT or PE) according to the discharge diagnosis protocol. An analysis of VTE variables indicated that the incidence of VTE in the biologic group (14.33/10,000 person-years) was higher than that in the conventional drug group (12.61/10,000 person-years). As assessed by the Cox proportional hazards model, the relative HR for VTE in the biologic group (HR: 1.11; 95% CI 0.79-1.55) versus that in the conventional drug group did not reach a significant difference. In conclusion, this study found no significant differences in risk were observed between the use of conventional DMARDs and biologics.

Read more:
Effect of Introducing Biologics to Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis on the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism: a Nationwide Cohort Study - DocWire News

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) As hospitals across Mississippi and around the country continue to deal with high numbers of COVID-19 patients, yet another one of their resources is running low.

One of the challenges we face is, How do we treat patients in a consistent fashion?' says North Mississippi Health Services Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jeremy Blanchard.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved tocilizumab for emergency use in late June. Two months later, a global shortage of the drug has drawn the concern of the World Health Organization.

Sometimes either those medications or our testing supplies have come at risk, Dr. Blanchard says. Most recently, we have one of our medicationsthat we use with severe respiratory dysfunctions that has a threatened supply chain right now.

The WHO says tocilizumab can play a key part in keeping patients alive and reducing the need for mechanical ventilation for the severely ill.

Very similar to the hydroxychloroquine family (of drugs) used in rheumatoid arthritis, says Hank Norwood, a pharmacist for Allegro Family Clinics.

Now Mississippi hospitals must rely on alternatives.

The steroid inhalers, the steroid packs, the antibiotic packs, and the breathing inhalers, Norwood says.

Dr. Jeremy Blanchard says NMHS hospitals have algorithms to help guide them in choosing the best treatment for a patient.

What they are is, if A happens then do B and if B happens then you do C, he explained. Its based on a positive test and a set of symptoms that says you have COVID.

But Dr. Blanchard says the best way to treat COVID is still to prevent someone from getting it.

If you were going to look at what evidence do we have that really has been effective in treating and managing COVID, the three biggies that come up first are going to be vaccination, masking and monoclonal antibodies, he says.

The WHO says it is working to expand the number of manufacturers of tocilizumab across the globe.

Continue reading here:
Mississippi hospitals dealing with global shortage of arthritis drug tocilizumab used to treat severely ill COVID-19 patients Mississippi hospitals...

Background and Purpose

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurrence. In this work, we assessed the incidence and predictive factors of VTE in our real-life cohort of RA patients. To contextualize our results, we reviewed the available literature about this topic, we performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively followed-up patients with RA attending our Rheumatologic Clinic between January 2010 and December 2020.

Each patient was investigated for VTE occurrence. Incident cases were reported as incidence proportion and incidence rate per 1000 person-years at risk. Possible predictive factors were also exploited by regression analyses. Available literature about this topic was also assessed.

In this evaluation, 347 consecutive patients without previous evidence of VTE, attending our Rheumatologic Clinic from 2010 to 2020, were studied. In our real-life cohort, the incidence proportion of VTE was 3.7% (2.7-4.7%) and considering over 1654 person-years, an incidence rate of 7.8 1000 (2.5-11.7). Exploratively assessing predictive factors in our cohort, older age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.14, p = .015), higher body mass index (HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.04-1.80, P = .026), and longer disease duration (HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.03-1.20, P = .006) resulted to be significant predictors of VTE occurrence during the follow-up.In our real-life cohort, VTE burden has been suggested in patients with RA.

Comparing our results with previous data derived from randomized controlled trials and administrative data, some different findings were retrieved about incidence of VTE. Assessing predictive factors, older age, higher body mass index, and longer disease duration resulted to be significant predictors of VTE occurrence during the follow-up. Taking together these observations, a further evaluation of this issue on specific designed studies is needed to provide more generalizable results to the daily clinical practice.

Continue reading here:
Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism in Rheumatoid Arthritis, Results from a "Real-life" Cohort and an Appraisal of Available Literature -...

Lorena Britton and her mother, Rosa, moved to Boston this month. It marked the fulfillment of a goal the teen set over a decade ago: to attend Harvard University.

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. Lorena Britton still remembers the moment she found out she would be attending her dream school.

That was December 17, the teen said. That was just like the best day of my life. We got the news at 7 p.m. and I stayed up all night.

The East Lake High School class of 2021 valedictorian only applied to one university. Attending Harvard had always been her goal since the day she came home from elementary school and asked her mother, Rosa, which school was the best in the nation. They even took a trip to Boston when Lorena was eight years old.

Weve had this mutual goal of getting there, said Lorena. Its such a special place to be.

Now, they both are there.

Im very proud, said Rosa, whom her daughter describes as her biggest cheerleader. So far, she hasnt let me down.

In mid-August, Lorena and Rosa packed up everything they owned and left Florida for Boston. It took four days to make the drive from the Sunshine State due to Rosas health issues. Shes been living with increasingly debilitating rheumatoid arthritis since she was 22 years old.

Brushing my teeth is hard, said Rosa, who emigrated from Venezuela knowing very little English two decades ago.

Lorena has been the caretaker for her mother for the last 8-10 years, helping with everyday tasks most able-bodied people take for granted. Her mothers arthritis has gotten progressively worse.

Thats why Lorena chose Harvard.

Its mostly the reason I want to be a doctor to help people like her, said Lorena. I just love learning.

Rheumatoid arthritis has attacked Rosas joints. She has limited mobility and is in constant pain. Lorena hopes her studies in regenerative biology at Harvard will lead to finding a breakthrough treatment or cure for her mothers physical issues.

Its been attacking me very aggressively. I cannot use my hands. I keep my spirits up and try to do my best, be happy, and all I can do is pray to God to see my Lorenas success, said Rosa. My life has been like a trial of fire.

Classes begin on September 1 for Lorena. She is eager to get back to the classroom. For a decade shes been dreaming of this day.

For herself, and her mother.

With modern science and stem cells we can probably find a cure for my moms disease, Lorena said. We depend on each other.

Lorena was awarded $2,000 from Achieva after the credit union heard about her story. Achieva has awarded $26,000 in scholarship funds this year, bringing its total to more than $200,000 in scholarships in the past 14 years.

Lorena plans to get a degree in developmental and regenerative biology.

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East Lake valedictorian goes to Harvard to study medicine and cure moms arthritis - WTSP.com

Arthritis: Signs and symptoms to look out for, treatment and tips to prevent | Photo Credit: Pixabay 

New Delhi:Joints, the point at which two bones meet, play an important role in the body's ability to move. Conditions affecting the joint can cause major discomfort and hindrance to lifestyle due to the obstruction in movement. Arthritis is a type of condition that affects the joints. The common areas that may be affected by this condition include hands, knees, feet, hips, and lower back. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis is one of the leading causes of work disability.

Common arthritis types include osteoarthritis, septic arthritis, gout, thumb arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and reactive arthritis. If you notice the following symptoms in your joints, consult a doctor:

The risk factors of arthritis may include sex, genetics, joint trauma or injury, age, and obesity. Treatment of this condition focuses on reducing joint damage, pain management, and symptoms regulation. It can be diagnosed through methods such as direct arthrography, radiography, musculoskeletal system MRI, CRP test, and synovial fluid analysis. Depending on the type of arthritis, the treatment may involve physical therapy, medication, occupational therapy, occupational therapy, lifestyle regulation, and surgery.

Here are some tips for arthritis prevention:

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.

Link:
Arthritis: Signs and symptoms to look out for, treatment and tips to prevent - Times Now

Some people find that making changes to their diet improves their arthritis symptoms. This may involve avoiding inflammatory foods, such as saturated fat and sugar. It may also involve avoiding foods that are high in purines.

In this article, we look at five types of food a person with arthritis may benefit from avoiding, as well as foods that may help.

Read on to find out which foods to avoid with arthritis.

Several types of fat increase inflammation in the body. According to the Arthritis Foundation, a person with arthritis should limit:

One study in Nutrients indicates that people who drink regular sugar-sweetened soda have an increased risk of RA. Harvard Health note that excess sugar consumption also increases the risk of dying from heart disease. It can also lead to obesity, inflammation, and other chronic diseases.

Many products contain added sugars. Always check food labels on breakfast cereals, sauces, and soft drinks, as these may contain surprising amounts of added sugars.

AGEs are inflammatory compounds that can accumulate in tissues, particularly as someone ages. An article in Patient Education explains that people with diseases such as diabetes and RA often have increased AGE levels. So, reducing AGE levels may help reduce inflammation.

Fat and sugar both increase AGE levels in the body. Some food processing methods and high temperature cooking also increase the AGE levels in food.

Nightshades are a group of vegetables that contain the compound solanine. Studies have not confirmed that nightshades can trigger arthritis pain, but the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine indicate that removing them from the diet helps improve symptoms in some people.

Nightshade vegetables include:

The Arthritis Foundation advise that people who suspect nightshades might exacerbate symptoms exclude them from their diet for a couple of weeks, then reintroduce them one at a time.

Keeping a food diary may help a person keep track of any reactions they have to a specific food.

For people who have gout, a doctor may advise a low purine diet combined with the medication.

Purines are substances in foods that the body converts to uric acid. Uric acid can build up in the bloodstream, causing a gout attack. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the following foods are high in purines:

However, a 2018 review identified that some purine-rich vegetables, such as cauliflower, mushrooms, and beans, have no links to gout risk.

There are several types of arthritis, all of which cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Other forms include:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 23% of adults in the United States have a form of arthritis.

What a person eats can help:

Usually, inflammation protects the body from harm by helping defend against bacteria and aiding wound healing. However, when inflammation persists for an extended period, chronic symptoms can develop.

What a person eats has an impact on inflammation levels. Some foods are inflammatory, and others are anti-inflammatory.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, numerous studies show that anti-inflammatory foods can reduce arthritis pain and progression.

A persons body weight also influences inflammation levels. Fat cells produce cytokines, which are immune cells that increase inflammation.

A person can use diet to maintain a moderate weight, which may help with inflammation and also reduce pressure on the joints.

Finally, some types of arthritis have specific trigger foods. For example, foods that are high in purines can contribute to a gout attack.

Consuming the following foods may benefit people with arthritis.

The Arthritis Foundation list the following as types of fat that can reduce inflammation:

Coconut oil may also be beneficial for arthritis. Animal studies show that even though coconut oil is a saturated fat, it has anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers need to carry out more controlled studies to confirm this benefit in humans.

According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, some studies indicate that plant-based diets can decrease RA symptoms. The Arthritis Foundation suggest that the following fruits and vegetables may be especially beneficial for people with arthritis:

Eating an anti-inflammatory diet can help someone stay healthy and avoid the symptoms of inflammation. One of the most researched anti-inflammatory diets is the Mediterranean diet.

The Mediterranean diet focuses on the following foods:

The diet also includes moderate levels of dairy products but limits sugar, alcohol, and red meat.

The Arthritis Foundation note that a Mediterranean diet can reduce inflammation and pain in people with osteoarthritis and protect against fracture risk.

Some people who follow the Mediterranean diet may also lose weight without counting calories or limiting portion sizes because the diet is predominantly plant-based.

A large population-based 2018 study found that men who followed the Mediterranean diet had a lower risk of developing RA. Another study suggests that the antioxidants in the Mediterranean diet may decrease pain for people with RA.

Other tips that may help someone to manage their arthritis include:

Foods that increase inflammation, such as sugar and saturated fat, may worsen arthritis symptoms. Some people may also find that foods high in purines and nightshades trigger arthritis flare-ups.

To identify triggers, a person can try excluding suspected foods for a couple of weeks, then reintroducing them one at a time.

Anti-inflammatory foods may help someone with arthritis manage their symptoms. These include plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and anti-inflammatory fats.

Someone with arthritis who is struggling to find the best eating plan may wish to speak to a registered dietitian.

More:
5 foods to avoid with arthritis to reduce pain

The occurrence of psoriatic arthritis can place an extremely negative toll on the overall health of individuals. This is because psoriatic arthritis is more severe than any other form of arthritis. Under psoriatic arthritis, patients suffering from a skin condition called psoriases start to exhibit extreme symptoms of arthritis. This results in excessive pain, uneasiness, and discomfort for the sufferer, often necessitating emergency dosage of steroids. Hence, there is a dire need to ensure that psoriatic arthritis is controlled which in turn gives an impetus to the growth of the global market. The revenue scale of the global psoriatic arthritis treatment market shall improve alongside advancements in the field of geriatric care.

There is no permanent treatment for psoriatic arthritis, and it can only be controlled with proper medication. The discomfort suffered by people affected with psoriatic arthritis is abysmal. Owing to the aforementioned factors, the global psoriatic arthritis treatment market is projected to attract the attention of the medical fraternity in the years to follow. The demand for psoriatic arthritis is projected to reach new heights in the years to follow.

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The global psoriatic arthritis treatment market can be segmented on the basis of the following parameters: drug class, route of administration, and region. Based on drug class, the global psoriatic arthritis treatment market can be segmented into Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), and biologics. Based on route of administration, the global psoriatic arthritis treatment market can be segmented into orals, topical, and injectables.

Global Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment Market: Notable Developments

Several advancement in the competitive landscape have become a key characteristic of the global psoriatic arthritis treatment market in recent times.

Global Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment Market: Growth Driver

The occurrence of psoriatic arthritis is preceded by the severity of psoriasis in individuals. Hence, the field of dermatology needs to be work in conjunction with other medical departments in order to treat and control psoriatic arthritis. Hence, the global psoriatic arthritis treatment market shall expand alongside advancements in the field of dermatology. Furthermore, the availability of over-the-counter drugs for treatment of psoriatic arthritis propelled demand within the global market.

The joints suffer severe pain during psoriatic arthritis treatment, and the patients need to be quick recourse treatments. In a lot of cases, psoriatic arthritis poses a risk of permanent damage of joints. For this reason, the demand for psoriatic arthritis treatment has been rising at a stellar pace.

Global Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment Market: Regional Outlook

On the basis of geography, the global psoriatic arthritis treatment market can be segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific. The psoriatic arthritis treatment market in North America is expanding alongside advancements in the field of regional healthcare.

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The global psoriatic arthritis treatment market can be segmented as:

Route of Administration

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Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment Market demand has been rising on account of advancements in the field of healthcare and biosimilar analysis - BioSpace

Arthritis is a common health problem that causes pain and inflammation in joints. This condition is very common in the UK with more than 10 million Brits suffering from arthritis or other, similar conditions that affect the joints. Although arthritis can affect people of all ages it often emerges as you get older - here are five signs to spot the early onset of this debilitating condition.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis it affecting almost 9 million in the UK alone.

The pain and stiffness commonly associated with arthritis emerge where the joints become inflamed, but there are other signs of this painful condition to watch out for.

There are lots of different types of arthritis and the symptoms you may experience will vary according to which type you have.

READ MORE:The 'ultimate' diet swaps and best foods to avoid arthritis symptoms

Sadly there isnt a cure for this condition but there are lots of treatments that can help to slow it down.

That is why its so important to seek diagnosis as soon as possible, the earlier you start treatment the better.

Treatments include medication, physiotherapy and in some cases surgery.

Surgical procedures such as hip replacements may be needed in the worse cases.

Being active and exercising regularly can help reduce and prevent pain.

The NHS say: "As long as you do the right type and level of exercise for your condition, your arthritis won't get any worse.

Combined with a healthy, balanced diet, regular exercise will help you lose weight and place less strain on your joints.

It adds: Your GP can recommend the type and level of exercise that's right for you.

Continued here:
Arthritis symptoms: Five of the most common signs of arthritis you might be missing - Express

Arthritis is one of the top causes of disability in adults. With so many affected by this disease, one would think high-quality medication without side-effects is easy to find. However, that couldnt be further from the truth. OTC medications somewhat help, but they cause dependence and can even damage the liver. However, there is an alternative to common analgesics CBD oil. Using CBD to fight arthritis pain is a great natural option, and it has proven to be quite effective over the last few years. Still, you may be wondering What is the best CBD oil for arthritis on the market? Read on to find out.

Finding the best CBD oil for arthritis is harder than it seems. The oil needs to contain enough CBD to lessen the pain with frequent use. However, it should not contain more than 0.3% of THC because you should be able to use it whenever you need to without accidentally getting high. Additionally, all ingredients in the oil should be high-quality, preferably organic. Here are our top six best CBD oil for arthritis choices and what we love about each one:

If youre looking for the best CBD oil for arthritis that uses organic, high-quality ingredients, look no further. At Royal CBD, the quality of ingredients is something you can always count on. Although they are a relatively new company, Royal CBD has already differentiated itself as a premium manufacturer with effective products.

Although they also offer gummies, topicals, and capsules, CBD oils are their most sought-after product. However, theres a good reason for that, as all of the ingredients they use are GMO-free and organic. They source their hemp from certified organic farms in Colorado and use a supercritical CO2 extraction process. That way, they make sure to preserve as much of the active compounds found in hemp as possible.

The Royal CBD oils are full-spectrum, and they contain over 80 active compounds, in addition to CBD. However, they contain less than 0.3% of THC, so you wont have to worry about accidentally getting high from the oil. Royal CBD offers four potencies, ranging from 250 mg to 2500 mg. Additionally, they offer four flavor options mint, vanilla, berry, and natural. Every Royal CBD product is third-party lab tested for purity and quality. That means youll always get the high-quality oil you paid for.

Gold Bee offers a variety of CBD products that can help ease the symptoms of your arthritis. In their CBD range, you can find honey sticks, soft gels, gummies, and oils. Staying true to their name, all of Gold Bees products are honey-infused. If youre looking for the best CBD oil for arthritis that has a delicious, all-natural taste, Gold Bee CBD oil is the one to try.

The Gold Bee CBD oil comes in two flavors natural and kiwi-honey. However, if youre vegan, you should be cautious when shopping on their website. Although it says that their products are 100% vegan, many vegans choose not to eat honey, as it is a byproduct of bees.

If you are vegan and choose not to eat honey, unfortunately, you wont have any flavor options to choose from. Still, the unflavored oil is delicious, made out of organic, vegan ingredients, and one you must try. Its hard to find a completely vegan CBD oil, and this one contains a full-spectrum of hemp compounds that are quite effective.

Gold Bee Oils come in only one potency 1200 mg. That means you get about 40 mg of CBD per serving, which may be more than you need if youve never used CBD oils before. However, if you frequently use CBD products, the Gold Bee oil is a high-quality one you wont regret trying.

If youre looking for the best CBD oil for arthritis and youre new to CBD products, CBDPure oils may be perfect for you. Particularly, the 300 mg potency oil is one you must try. Since it delivers only 10 milligrams of CBD per serving, you wont be at risk of taking more than you need. Once youre used to CBD and how it makes you feel, you can increase the potency to 600, or even 1000. The 600 potency option contains 20 mg of CBD per serving, while the 1000 mg one has about 33 mg.

At CBDPure, every product is full spectrum. That means the natural terpenes and phytonutrients stay in the oil and aid in the absorption of CBD. They use organic hemp grown on family farms in Washington and Colorado. Additionally, they only work with farms they fully trust and have been using the same farm sources since 2016.

The extraction process is 100% based on supercritical CO2. Therefore, all of the CBD molecules and other compounds remain intact. Still, you wont be able to find an oil with a potency higher than 1000 mg at CBDPure. Additionally, they dont offer any flavor options, which may deter some from trying their products.

Hemp Bombs are one of the pioneers of the CBD products space. The company started working in 2016, and, since then, theyve been coming up with ways to include original flavors and higher potencies into their products. If youre looking for the best CBD oil for arthritis and you want a variety of potencies and flavors, Hemp Bombs can be a one-stop-shop for your every need.

They offer potencies ranging from 125 mg all the way up to 5000 mg. That means youll be able to get the dosage just right for your needs. Furthermore, Hemp Bombs products offer highly potent options at quite a reasonable price. They source their hemp from farms that use soil without pesticides, toxins, or heavy metals. However, their products arent certified organic, or GMO-free which is something to be mindful of.

Hemp Bombs CBD oils come in six flavor options. You can choose from five delicious flavors or go with a natural option that does not contain any artificial flavorings. However, if you dont mind artificial flavorings, you can choose a peppermint, watermelon, orange creamsicle, acai berry, or mint chocolate flavor. Hemp Bombs oils are inexpensive, delicious, and high-potency. They are a must-try if you like to try new flavors of CBD oils.

Medterra offers a wide variety of CBD products. If youre looking for the best CBD oil for arthritis, you should make sure its a broad or full spectrum. That means the oil contains helpful compounds such as CBC, CBG, and CBN, in addition to CBD. Still, you should make sure the oil contains less than 0.3% of THC in order to avoid the psychoactive effects of this compound.

Medterras products offer you ultra broad-spectrum CBD oils that contain many beneficial compounds found in hemp. Additionally, there are a lot of options to choose from. Their Ultra Broad Spectrum Cannabinoid Tincture comes in three flavors citrus, strawberry mint, and unflavored. You can also choose from two potencies, 1000 and 2000 mg.

If youre looking for a way to boost your immune system and fight arthritis pain, the Medterra Immune Boost Drops are a must-try. It comes in a 750 mg potency, and it contains healthy ingredients such as ginger root, elderberry, vitamins C and D, and many more.

Another noteworthy tincture from Medterra is the CBD Oil Tincture. It contains 99.6% CBD and organic MCT derived from coconut oil. Additionally, it comes in three potencies 500, 1000, and 3000 mg.

Nuleaf Naturals offers a wide variety of high-quality hemp products. In addition to CBD oil, they offer CBC, delta 8 THC, CBG, and CBN oil varieties. Additionally, they offer CBD pet oil, which can be highly beneficial to pets with arthritis. If youre searching for the best CBD oil for arthritis thats high quality but still inexpensive, Nuleaf Naturals is a great one.

When shopping for a Nuleaf Naturals CBD oil, you can choose from five potency options 300, 900, 1800, 3000, and 6000 mg. Additionally, you can get a single bottle of the oil, or opt for a 2-bottle or a 6-bottle bundle that will save you some money. However, the oils dont come in any flavors, which can be a deterrent for those who dont like the taste of CBD.

The oils Nuleaf Naturals offer are full-spectrum. That means youll get the benefit of the entourage effect because the hemp components will work in synergy. Additionally, they use supercritical and subcritical CO2 extraction methods, which preserve the biggest amount of CBD and other compounds. Furthermore, Nuleaf Naturals test their products in an independent lab making sure the quality and potency are up to par.

Arthritis is a disease that causes pain and swelling of the joints. It can also lead to loss of function in the joints, usually the knees or wrists. There are two common types of arthritis osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

There is no clear cause of rheumatoid arthritis. Its an autoimmune illness that usually affects larger joints such as hips, knees, or elbows. Osteoarthritis has a clear cause, and its usually an injury or the wear of joints. It usually starts later in life, and its most common in athletes and the elderly.

If youre looking for the best CBD oil for arthritis, you may want to learn more about how CBD helps with arthritis pain. Cannabidiol is anti-inflammatory and, although the research on using CBD for pain management is still in its infancy, the results are promising. In 2016, researchers found that using CBD topically to the affected areas lessens arthritic pain. Additionally, a 2017 paper concluded that using CBD to manage pain connected to arthritis is effective and safe.

CBD oils are a great alternative to traditional pain medicine. However, its important to find the right CBD oil. Using low-quality oils can lead to a lack of positive effects. Therefore, many are discouraged after trying a low-quality CBD oil and choose not to give another oil a shot. That can lead to them choosing medication with potential side-effects instead of going for the natural option.

Choosing the best CBD oil for arthritis can make all the difference in whether the oil lessens your pain. Thats why you should choose carefully. However, if you stick to one of these highly potent oils, you cant go wrong. Pick the flavor you like and the potency that works for you, and enjoy a pain-free life without medication.

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Best CBD Oils for Arthritis: Top Hemp Products for Joint Pain Reviews - The Daily World

Arthritis is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that cause pain and inflammation in a joint. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis in the UK, affecting nearly nine million people. According to the NHS, OA initially affects the smooth cartilage lining of the joint - this makes movement more difficult than usual, leading to pain and stiffness. Milk and dairy products help to keep bones strong but what is the best type of milk for those suffering with arthritis symptoms according to experts and what should be avoided?

There are also claims that avoiding dairy can help with osteoarthritis, said Medical News Today.

The site continued: Although milk, cheese, and other dairy products can be problematicfor some people, these foods can have anti-inflammatory effects in others.

People who have inflammatory symptoms relating togout find skimmed and low-fat milkprotectiveagainst this condition.

An elimination diet can help people to determine whether or not their symptoms improve or worsen with dairy intake.

A study reported in the June issue of Arthritis Care & Research found that women who drank low-fat or skim milk experienced a slower progression of knee osteoarthritis.

The study, which was conducted by researchers at Harvard Medical School, followed 2,148 participants with arthritis symptoms in their knees for four years.

Researchers measured the participants' joint space in the knee to see how much their osteoarthritis was progressing.

Narrowing of the joint space is a sign that osteoarthritis is getting worse, noted the study.

It concluded that the more milk women (but not men) drank, the less their joint space narrowed.

Tea is one of the most studied drinks when it comes to its benefits for arthritis patients, said the Arthritis Foundation.

The health charity continued: Green, black and white teas are all rich in polyphenols compounds from plants that have strong anti-inflammatory effects.

Green tea is generally viewed as the most beneficial of all because its active ingredient is a polyphenol known as epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG).

EGCG has been shown to be as much as 100 times stronger in antioxidant activity than vitamins C and E with studies showing it also helps preserve cartilage and bone.

Soda and other sweet drinksare the main culprits when it comes to added sugars.

Anti-inflammatory diet experts often say you should cut out all added sugars, including agave and honey.

"The more simple sugars we consume, the more gunk our bodies produce as a result of multiple metabolic responses, said nutritionist Jaclyn London.

She added: This sets off a chain reaction that can increase free radicals, which can be damaging to healthy tissues, and inflammation-promoting cytokines proteins produced by our immune system, which can exacerbate the process of cellular damage.

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Arthritis: A type of milk which may reduce your painful symptoms and what to avoid - Daily Express

Hussein Rakine was working in a warehouse several years ago that supplied smoking and vaping products to stores. He noticed shady characters trying to sell him on a product called cannabidiol, better known as CBD. Impressed by the purported benefits (pain relief, anxiety reduction, etc.), if not people peddling it him, Rakine decided to make his own, initially with one customer in mind.

[Photo: Dylan Rives/courtesy of JustCBD]My mom was on something like 26, 27 pills at the time for arthritis and other ailments. She was constantly drugged up, Rakine says. I thought CBD was something that might help her. But I couldnt find anything on the market that I was comfortable giving to my own mom.

Rakine started making his own CBD tinctures with honey. My mom is a big fan of honey, he notes. Before long, he graduated to trying out gummies, and soon felt confident in the efficacy of his products and the potential hole he could fill in the CBD space with his own company.

JustCBD launched in 2017 and has since carved out a space in the CBD industry, which is expected to hit $55 billion by 2028.

In addition to selling more than 350 products online, including gummies, topical treatments, and even pet treats, JustCBD is carried in 14,000 stores worldwide.

[Photo: courtesy JustCBD]Rakines hook? Focusing on CBD as a lifestyle brand. People are approaching CBD from this medicinal, almost pharmaceutical route, and I dont think thats where CBD stands, he says. I think people take CBD to improve their lifestyle and not necessarily as a curelet me wake up in the morning, take my daily CBD so I can feel better throughout my day. We looked at it like that from day one.

Much like Rakine, who was seeking a solution for his mother, I was on the hunt for something to help my dad with his wrist painand, according to my dad, JustCBDs products have helped him like no other topical treatments have.

My dad had carpal tunnel surgery in 2018. Between that and arthritis issues, his wrists and hands often wind up swollen, stiff, and throbbing. When I came across JustCBDs products, I figured Id send some to my dad, knowing hed be slow to try them (if at all) due to the misconception that CBD gets people high. After convincing my dadnay, my mom, who he lovingly refers to as Inspector 12 for her shrewd eye toward everythinghe tried the roll-on stick and relief cream and hasnt looked back.

[Photo: courtesy JustCBD]Ive been sending him different products to try since then, the most recent being the Ultra Relief CBD Gel. And, according to his review by text message: That stuff really works.

I started using JustCBD around the same as my dad to try and fix my horrendous sleep habits. Im in a perpetual losing game with my brain, which refuses to wind down properly at night. JustCBDs regular gummies generally did the trick. But the company recently dropped a formulation with melatonin, and Im a changed man.

Rakine says his team is able to think up new products and turn them around in three months max.

We embrace the fact that were a small business, he says of his 200-person outfit. Its fun to be able to go to a lab and say, Hey, we need to make a sleeping product, and then let their creativity run. I think with some of the more big businesses, you dont get that nimbleness. It really gives us a competitive advantage.

[Photo: courtesy JustCBD]Whats also putting JustCBD at a competitive advantage is a pending acquisition from publicly traded health and wellness company Jupiter Wellness. In April, Jupiter Wellness filed a letter of intent to acquire 51% of JustCBD for $30 million.

With the acquisition, Rakine is hoping to invest in marketing, as well as build a bigger manufacturing facility, which would give us the capability to scale and grow as some of these big-box stores begin to call us and recognize what CBD is, he says. The Walmarts and Walgreens and Targets of the world, we need to be prepared for the influx we think is coming very soon.

Fast CompanysRecommender section is dedicated to surfacing innovative products, services, and brands that are changing how we live and work. Every item that we write about is independently selected by our editors and, whenever possible, tested and reviewed. Fast Companymay receive revenue from some links in our stories; however, all selections are based on our editorial judgment.

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Review: JustCBD gummies, creams help with arthritis and sleep - Fast Company

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, inflammation and stiffness in a joint. It can be the result of simple wear and tear or autoimmune conditions. What unites the different forms of arthritis is what you can do to mitigate the impact of joint problems.

While theres no miracle diet for arthritis, fortunately, many foods can help fight inflammation and improve joint symptoms.

"For starters, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans but low processed foods and saturated fat, is not only great for overall health, but can also help manage disease activity," advises the Arthritis Foundation (AF).

Many of these components can be found in a Mediterranean-style diet.

In fact, studies confirm that eating foods commonly part of the Mediterranean diet can benefit your joints as well as your heart, reports AF.

"However, being active can help reduce and prevent pain," notes the NHS.

Regular exercise can also:

"As long as you do the right type and level of exercise for your condition, your arthritis won't get any worse," explains the NHS.

"Your GP can recommend the type and level of exercise that's right for you."

View original post here:
Arthritis diet: The surprising food that may cause painful joint inflammation - 'limit' - Daily Express

Many arthritis sufferers use CBD as an alternative remedy for easing joint pain. Weve put together a list of the best CBD oil for arthritis and a guide to help you get the most out of CBD.

Arthritis is a common condition characterized by joint pain and inflammation. The United States witnessed a significant increase in the prevalence of arthritis in recent years. Standard treatments typically focus on pain relief but arent always effective and can cause notable side effects.

As a result, more and more people are opting for safe, natural options such as CBD oil. Still, with so many products available and a lack of regulation, finding a high-quality CBD product can be difficult.

Thats why we researched and compared numerous leading brands to find the best CBD oil for arthritis as well as the best CBD cream.

Heres our list of the top 10 CBD oils and creams for this debilitating condition, based on the formula, potency, hemp source, third-party testing, pricing, and other factors.

CBD oil and topical CBD products are an increasingly popular option for arthritis sufferers. Although more research is needed, early studies[1] indicate that CBD and other cannabinoids may relieve the pain and inflammation involved in arthritis. Some of the suitable CBD oil for pain can be found here.

This means CBD can help with symptom relief in common types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Better yet, theres some evidence that CBD may have a positive effect on the inflammation that causes some types of arthritis, which means it may help the condition directly.

CBD can also offer indirect benefits for arthritis sufferers, such as improving sleep and mood-related issues.

In comparison, prescription drugs typically only focus on pain relief instead of improving the root cause of certain types of arthritis. They can also cause significant side effects and other issues such as withdrawal in the case of opioids..

Editors Choice

Spruce CBD

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For those who dont mind paying a little more for high-quality CBD from a family-run company with hundreds of satisfied customers, Spruce CBD is a solid pick.

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Spruce CBD was founded in North Carolina in 2018. The company stands out for being a relatively small, family-run business and having hundreds of satisfied customer reviews.

Spruce sources its CBD products from a 200-year-old strain of hemp grown organically in Kentucky and North Carolina. It uses a time-tested alcohol extraction process to create full-spectrum products rich in all of hemps beneficial components.

The company also posts detailed third-party test reports for everyone to see. Besides working well on adults, Spruce CBD is also safe for kids, which makes it one of the most popular choice on the market.

Spruces CBD oil comes in two strengths: regular, with 25 mg CBD per ml and 750 mg total, and high-strength, with 80 mg/ml and 2400 mg CBD in total. Both tinctures are formulated with hemp seed oil and the regular version is also flavored with peppermint.

The 2400 mg tincture may be particularly suited for arthritis thanks to its high potency.

If youre looking for a CBD oil designed for arthritis, CBDfxs wellness tincture is a great choice because it contains multiple anti-inflammatory ingredients backed by evidence-based research.

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CBDfx is an established CBD brand out of California. It offers many different kinds of CBD products with unique formulas, flavors, and other features that make it stand out from the competition.

CBDfx sources its hemp from organic farms in Kentucky. All of its products go through extensive third-party testing to verify their potency and safety.

CBDfxs unique take on CBD products can be seen with their wellness tincture. It contains not only CBD but also a large amount of CBG, another beneficial cannabinoid,

More importantly, this CBD oil carries two natural anti-inflammatory compounds that have been demonstrated to help with arthritis symptoms in research studies: coenzymeQ10[2] (CoQ10)- a rat-based study and curcumin[3] study in humans.

Thats why this CBD oil is especially suitable for dealing with arthritis. Its available in four strengths:

High-quality and all-natural ingredients are what makes Royal CBD a great option. Its all back by lab tests and a 30-day guarantee.

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CBD oils effectiveness in relieving pain is one reason people consider it as an option. Its also attractive because its a natural remedy, working with your bodys natural healing abilities. If its natural healing youre looking for, the Royal CBDs oil may be a good option for you.

Its derived from hemp that is organically grown, as well as grown in a sustainable way to ensure there will be more in the future. Once grown, the hemp is extracted using the CO2 process, which is the safest and cleanest option. You also wont find any added flavors in Royal CBD oil either, just the natural flavoring of the oil.

Some people prefer CBD oils that are as close to natural as possible. In that case, CBDPure is a decent option.

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Washingtons CBDPure has been around since 2016. The company offers a simple yet effective lineup of full-spectrum CBD oil, capsules, and cream sourced from organic hemp grown in Colorado and Washington.

As demonstrated by the companys third-party lab reports, the full-spectrum extract used in its products contains significant amounts of minor cannabinoids like CBC, CBDV, and CBG.

Thats a sign of a high-quality full-spectrum product since these compounds add to the beneficial effects of CBD.

CBDPure offers a 60 ml CBD oil containing full-spectrum CBD extract blended with hemp seed oil and no other extra ingredients. It comes in three strengths:

This isnt the most potent CBD oil on the market. However, if youre looking for a quality low-medium potency tincture made with pure ingredients, CBDPure fits the bill. We also have details of CBDPure brand you can read here.

Medterra is a top-tier CBD brand with competitive prices and is a particularly great option when you need pure CBD oil without any other active ingredients.

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Founded in 2017, Medterra is a leading CBD company known for offering quality products at affordable prices. All of its offerings are completely free of THC and sourced from organic hemp cultivated in Kentucky.

Medterra publishes detailed third-party lab test reports of its products. The company is also certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority, which means it passed a strict independent audit confirming that it follows strict hemp manufacturing standards.

Some people prefer to use CBD oil containing pure CBD (also called isolate) for arthritis and other conditions. In that case, Medterra is a great choice. Its CBD oil comes in three strengths:

It has a straightforward formula combining CBD isolate with coconut MCT oil.

Joy Organics is a good choice when you need CBD oil that doesnt contain any THC but still provides all of the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial hemp compounds alongside CBD.

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Joy Organics is a family-run CBD company out of Fort Collins, Colorado. It differentiates itself by offering only broad-spectrum CBD products.

Broad-spectrum CBD is a type of whole-plant hemp extract that contains all of the plants beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other ingredients, but with zero THC.

In that sense, its ideal for those who want to get the most out of hemp while completely avoiding THC.

Joy Organics products are derived from organic Colorado-grown hemp. Theyre comprehensively tested by a third-party lab to make it easy to verify their potency and safety. It is also found to be the best CBD for high blood pressure patients

Joy Organics offers broad-spectrum CBD oil in four strengths:

It uses virgin olive oil as the carrier oil and has four flavor options natural, tranquil mint, summer lemon, and orange bliss.

NuLeaf Naturals is one of the most respected names in the U.S. CBD industry, known particularly for its high-quality full-spectrum CBD oil tinctures.

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Founded in 2014 in Colorado, NuLeaf Naturals is one of the leading CBD brands in the country. Until recently, NuLeaf sold only one type of CBD product full-spectrum CBD oil which highlights the companys unrivaled expertise and a strong reputation.

NuLeaf uses organic Colorado-grown hemp-extracted with CO2 to make its products, which undergo comprehensive third-party testing for cannabinoid levels and contaminants.

The test results confirm that NuLeafs full-spectrum CBD extracts contain the full range of beneficial cannabinoids.

The best CBD oil for arthritis should use a potent, full-spectrum formula, and NuLeaf Naturals certainly meets that requirement.

Its CBD oil has a high potency of 60 mg per ml and comes in five bottle volumes ranging from 5 ml to 100 ml, with 300-6000 mg of CBD. Its formulated with hemp seed oil without any added flavoring.

Many people with arthritis prefer a high-potency CBD oil for significant relief. In that case, CBDistillery is an excellent pick because it offers tinctures containing as much as 167 mg of CBD per ml.

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One of the biggest names in the CBD industry, CBDistillery was founded in Colorado in 2016. The company offers a full range of affordable, high-quality CBD products with multiple strength options.

Theyre derived from organic hemp grown in Colorado and tested by a third-party lab to confirm their potency, safety, and consistency.

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10 Best CBD Oil for Arthritis & Joint Pain - 2021 Product ...

Practicing these habits can slow down OA, keep you healthy and put off surgery as long as possible.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight worsens OA. Combine healthy eating with regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

Control Blood Sugar

Many people have diabetes and OA. Having high glucose levels can make cartilage stiffer and more likely to break down. Having diabetes causes inflammation, which also weakens cartilage.

Maintain Range of Motion

Movement is medicine for joints. Make a habit of putting your joints through their full range of motion, but only up to the point where it doesnt cause more pain. Gentle stretching, raising and lowering legs from a standing or seated position, daily walks and hobbies such as gardening can help. But listen to your body and never push too hard.

Protect Joints

Make sure to warm up and cool down when doing exercise. If you play sports, protects joints with the right gear. Use your largest, strongest joints for lifting, pushing, pulling and carrying. Watch your step to prevent falls. Balance rest and activity throughout the day.

Relax

Find ways to reduce or avoid stress through meditation, listening to music, connecting with friends and family, doing fun activities, and finding ways to relax and recharge.

Choose a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating healthy food, not smoking, drinking in moderation and getting good sleep will help you to feel your best.

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Osteoarthritis

An estimated 1.5 million people living in the United States alone have RA, an autoimmune disease that causes joint pain, swelling, and eventually damage.

Researchers continue to look for new ways to diagnose RA, especially in its early stages. That is because the earlier a person receives a proper diagnosis of and treatment for RA, the better their chances of good outcomes, such as limiting joint damage and functional loss.

Researchers also remain uncertain as to what exactly causes RA to develop, although it seems to depend on a mix of genetic and environmental factors.

In more recent years, RA researchers have been exploring the link between ERA, people at risk of RA, and the changes in their oral and intestinal microbiota, or community of microbes.

It seems people with ERA and at risk of RA have abnormal levels of certain bacteria in the mucus that lines the mouth and intestines. They also seem to be more likely than other people to have periodontal disease, or gum disease.

What is more, some research indicates RA may begin in the oral cavity.

That is why a team of researchers from the Academic Centre for Dentistry of Amsterdam (ACTA) set out to analyze the microbial populations and periodontal condition of people with ERA, those at risk of RA, and a control group of people without these conditions for comparison.

Their study appears in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology.

Researchers have long speculated that autoimmune diseases, such as RA, are triggered or caused by microorganisms.

For quite some time, researchers have been aware there are links between periodontal disease, changes in the oral and intestinal microbiome, and RA.

Several studies seem to show that oral microbes in particular anaerobic bacteria, which do not require oxygen may play a role in the development of RA.

A 2009 study highlights three types of anaerobic bacteria occurring in the oral cavity that have been identified in joint fluid from people with RA. Several studies show that antibodies for certain types of anaerobic bacteria associated with periodontal disease may play a role in the development of RA.

Some researchers think these bacteria may cause an RA-associated immune response by producing proteins that trigger the formation of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs).

These compounds appear to promote inflammatory responses in different types of cells, including bone cells. Some studies have shown that this response ACPAs promote may be involved in the mediation of bone damage in the joints of people with RA.

For these and other reasons, the detection of ACPAs is now considered the most specific biomarker for RA in serum, which is the fluid component of blood.

The detection of ACPAs in serum also seems to help predict RA development several years before a person has clinical RA or experiences symptoms and receives an RA diagnosis.

That is why several research teams, including the team involved in the current study, have been exploring how changes in the composition and other components of the oral microbiome may relate to the onset of RA.

In the new study, researchers analyzed the oral microbiome and periodontal status of three groups of 50 people.

People in the first group had ERA, and the second group included people at risk of RA (people with serum ACPAs or arthralgia). People in the third group did not have RA and were not at risk, did not have autoimmune conditions, and were generally healthy.

Each participant was examined by a dentist to assess their periodontal condition. Dentists checked whether their gums bled with probing, the inflamed gum surface area, and how deep into the gum line dental tools could probe.

They also examined how many teeth each participant had, how many of their teeth were missing, decayed, or filled, and whether a person wore a removable denture. They also asked each participant about the last time they brushed their teeth and what their regular oral hygiene measures were.

In addition, the scientists collected from each participant samples of the tongue coating or film, saliva, and subgingival dental plaque, which is found below the gum.

After using devices to amplify the DNA present in the samples, they collected, analyzed, and quantified the microbial populations within the samples. They then compared microbial differences between the three groups.

The team identified no difference in periodontal conditions between the groups. There was also no difference in dental plaque samples.

Yet differences did exist between the oral saliva and tongue coating of people with ERA and at risk of RA compared with the control group.

Levels of bacteria belonging to the genera Prevotella and Veillonella were higher in saliva samples from people with ERA and at risk of RA compared with the control group. Veillonella bacterial levels were also higher in the tongue coatings of the RA groups than in those of people in the control group.

According to the authors, these findings suggest that a possible link between the oral microbe and RA may truly exist.

This also suggests that bacteria from these two genera, as well as some others already reported to be involved in RA onset, could help trigger immune responses that influence the development of RA.

The authors explain that these findings correspond to those of previous studies showing that people with new-onset RA and established RA had increased levels of oral Prevotella bacteria. The results also support research that found increased levels of Prevotella bacteria in the gut microbiome of people at risk of RA or with ERA.

The authors write that some strains of Prevotella can cause chronic inflammation, which can trigger immune cells to be released throughout the body. They add that in some cases, microbial dysbiosis, or microbial imbalances, partially resolves with RA treatment.

Medical News Today spoke with Dr. Vanessa L. Kronzer, who cowrote a recent review on the etiology of RA. She said:

This is an interesting study that, in my mind, achieves two goals. First, it provides further support for the mucosal origin hypothesis for RA. And second, it suggests that dysbiosis occurs even before disease onset and thus may play a role in RA disease pathogenesis.

Dr. Kronzer believes this research is an important step in a long path to understanding the etiology of this important disease.

MNT also contacted Johanna Kroese from ACTA, the corresponding author of the study. She explained:

Our results indicate a possible role for oral bacteria in triggering the onset of RA. Targeting these bacteria might lower the risk of developing RA. Future research can focus on strategies to target these bacteria and improving oral health, and might eventually lead to the development of measures for RA disease prevention.

While the study had many strengths, it also had some notable flaws.

People within the ERA group were receiving treatment for RA, while people at risk of RA and those in the control group were not. The researchers also did not collect information on some factors that may influence dental plaque, such as diet.

To confirm their findings, the authors say future studies must collect multiple datasets over longer periods of time, ideally using large groups of people and consistent collection methods.

Nevertheless, these findings may have uncovered yet another stepping stone in the complex, elusive development process of RA. This could be good news for the millions of people living with RA, and the healthcare professionals trying to diagnose and treat them.

As Johanna Kroese explained to MNT, although further research is needed, improving oral health is relevant for the entire population, and it wouldnt hurt to already pay attention to oral health in persons at risk of developing RA.

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Is there a link between mouth bacteria and rheumatoid arthritis? - Medical News Today

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted significant health disparities in the Hispanic community. Although these disparities are more apparent now, inequalities, including adequate access to health care and information, among Spanish-speaking communities pre-date the current pandemic. Hispanic individuals are also underrepresented in medical research.1

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Richardae Araojo, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) associate commissioner for Minority Health and the director of the Office of Minority Health & Health Equity, agreed with the premise described in a recent CenterWatch article that, Clinical trial researchers should include input from patients before the trial design and consent process even begins to ensure that minority participants feel included and that all study participants stay engaged until the study is complete. He went on to flag the need for more diverse clinical trials, asking that industry and other stakeholders make trial design, logistics, recruitment, and retention practices more patient-centric.2

Latest data made available by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that 4.4 million individuals who are Hispanic Americans live with some form of doctor-diagnosed arthritis.3 The prevalence of arthritis among Hispanic patients is less than among non-Hispanic White patients4; however, Hispanic patients are nearly twice as likely to become disabled from arthritis and experience joint damage.5

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As part of its ongoing commitment to lead efforts to effectively educate patients who prefer Spanish as their preferred language, CreakyJoints Espaol, the multicultural digital arthritis community for patients and caregivers worldwide and part of the Global Healthy Living Foundation (GHLF), recently launched new digital communication platforms to reach Spanish-speaking families via popular Latino social media platforms.

However, despite the heavy usage of social media, general health information available online for the Hispanic community heavily leans toward misinformation, which has led to low levels of diagnosis and a growing knowledge gap.

With this in mind, CreakyJoints Espaol launched additional communication channels to provide evidence-based health information and support on social media, including WhatsApp. CreakyJoints is the first patient organization to communicate with their members using WhatsApp, which was a priority given its popularity in the Hispanic community. Resources originally developed in English are now available in Spanish (translated with cultural sensitivity) to ensure equitable access to tools needed by patients with arthritis. For example, eRheum.org, a platform that helps patients get the most from their telehealth appointments, is available in both Spanish and English.

CreakyJoints member Yaideliz Acevedo (age 23 years), whose first language is Spanish, is also fluent in English and frequently switches between both languages. However, her mother is more comfortable using Spanish. Yaideliz said to us, When I was first diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis when I was 21 years and 1 month after having my son, it was overwhelming. There was a lot to learn about managing my disease and my mom was frustrated that she couldnt find on her own enough Spanish-language health information to understand my disease or its expected progression. At first, she didnt even know that people so young could be diagnosed with arthritis. Resources provided by CreakyJoints Espaol help me understand my disease and share information with my family and friends.

CreakyJoints recently launched ArthritisPower Espaol, intended for Spanish speakers, many of whom self-identify as Hispanic, to proactively participate in their disease management and contribute to better understanding of patients living with arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

Available as a free mobile and desktop application, the ArthritisPower Research Registry first launched in 2015. It includes more than 30,000 people who use the same patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures used in their health care providers office to track their experience of rheumatic, musculoskeletal, and other inflammatory diseases. Patients can select from a large range of PROs to track and email those data to their rheumatologist before their next appointment, which may facilitate shared-decision making based on objective measures of disease activity. Patients can also participate in voluntary research studies, many of which result in presentations at US and international medical meetings or publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Eligible ArthritisPower Espaol participants will be invited to join the existing ArthritisPower Patient Governor Group, which is responsible for co-evaluating research study requests in collaboration with clinicians, researchers, and CreakyJoints. The group also provides feedback on what research questions should be next advanced in ArthritisPower.

Our goal is to increase the Hispanic communitys participation in clinical and observational research. To ensure that Hispanic individuals are part of the conversation about what patients living with rheumatic conditions need to better manage their health, they need to be at the table and part of the conversation from the beginning.

Note: To learn more about CreakyJoints Espaol, visit http://www.CJES.org. To learn more and register with ArthritisPower Espaol, visit http://www.ArthritisPower.org.es

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Overcoming Health Disparities by Reaching Patients With Arthritis in Their Preferred Language - Rheumatology Advisor

Women vs men with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) were found to have higher disease activity and were less likely to reach their treatment target, particularly if they had a higher body mass index (BMI), according to study results published in Rheumatology.

In PsA, the prevalence of the disease is similar between the sexes; however, the symptoms can vary.

This study was conducted to evaluate the sex differences in the severity of PsA and the factors related to not reaching the treatment target.

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Patients from an outpatient rheumatology clinic in The Netherlands were included in the current cross-sectional study. Clinical and demographic data were used to assess the following differences between women and men: Psoriatic Arthritis Disease Activity Score (PASDAS; individual components included swollen and tender joints [SJC/TJC], enthesitis, C-reactive protein [CRP], dactylitis, physical component summary score of the short form-12 [SF12-PCS], and physician and patient global disease activity visual analog score [VAS]); skin/nail disease; mental component summary score of the short form-12 (SF12-MCS); health assessment questionnaire (HAQ); and inflammatory back pain (IBP).

A total of 855 patients with PsA were included in the study. Results indicated that mean PASDAS was significantly higher in women than men (3.5 vs 2.7, P <.001). Women vs men also had significantly worse scores for SJC, TJC, enthesitis, physician and patient global disease activity VAS, CRP, SF12-PCS, SF12-MCA, and HAQ (all P <.001). PASDAS treatment targets were more frequently not met in women vs men (odds ratio [OR], 2.03; P <.001). Factors significantly associated with not reaching the treatment target for the overall cohort included BMI, nail disease, IBP, and the number of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) used in the past or currently. Stratified for sex, BMI was associated with not reaching the treatment target in women, but not men (OR for BMI 25-30, 3.43; P <.001; OR for BMI 30-35, 2.59; P =.019; OR for BMI >35, 2.41; P =.002).

Study limitations included the cross-sectional design, lack of patients with recently diagnosed disease in the cohort, and the inability to determine the causal relationship between BMI and increased disease activity.

Researchers noted, For [rheumatoid arthritis], there is evidence that being overweight is associated with higher disease activity in women, but not in men. To our knowledge, we are the first to show that the same holds true for PsA. Further, A higher BMI in women, but not men, was associated with not reaching the treatment target. This suggests that rheumatologists should pay extra attention to weight loss in the disease management of women with PsA.

Mulder MLM, Wenink MH, Vriezekolk JE. Being overweight is associated with not reaching low disease activity in women but not men with psoriatic arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford). Published online April 8, 2021. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keab338

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BMI Associated With Higher Disease Activity in Women, But Not Men, With Psoriatic Arthritis - Rheumatology Advisor

Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, is a form of arthritis associated with psoriasis. PsA affects the joints and the areas of the body where tendons and ligaments connect to bones.

The National Psoriasis Foundation states that about 30% of individuals with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis during their lifetime.

Sometimes, people living with PsA may develop eye conditions, which can range from irritation to vision loss.

This article explains how PsA affects the eyes and how to treat and prevent these complications.

One eye condition that people living with PsA may experience is chronic dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Experts believe that about 2.7% of people with PsA have this condition. However, some studies suggest that the number may be as high as 18.75%.

In a person with this condition, the tear ducts lose their ability to produce tears, which are vital for proper lubrication of the eyes. A lack of adequate lubrication increases the risk of eye infections and can damage the cornea.

In cases where over-the-counter artificial tears prove ineffective, prescription eye drops may help increase tear production and lower inflammation. For some people, steroid eye drops may offer short-term relief to control inflammation.

Uveitis is a type of eye inflammation that affects the middle layer of tissue within the eyeball, called the uvea. The symptoms of uveitis include redness in the white parts of the eyes, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, pain, and floaters.

There are four types of uveitis:

The treatment for uveitis usually starts with corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation. If these do not work, an eye doctor may recommend injecting the eye with a corticosteroid. In cases of infection, an eye specialist may recommend antibiotics.

Cataracts are the result of cloudy films developing over the eye lens, leading to impaired vision. The Arthritis Foundation notes that inflammatory conditions such as PsA may advance the formation of cataracts.

Symptoms include:

People with cataracts require surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one.

Glaucoma is the term for a group of eye disorders that damage the optic nerve. It can lead to vision loss.

Chronic inflammation from arthritic conditions, including PsA, can contribute to glaucoma by increasing the pressure in the eyes.

This eye condition has no symptoms in the early stages when it is the most treatable. However, an ophthalmologist may detect it when they are carrying out a regular eye examination.

Symptoms that a person may experience include pain, blurred vision, and seeing blank spots or halos around lights. A doctor may prescribe eye drops to reduce the pressure in the eyes. Some people may require surgery.

Peripheral ulcerative keratitis causes the cornea, which is the transparent outer layer at the front of the eye, to become inflamed, which makes it prone to thinning.

The symptoms of peripheral ulcerative keratitis include:

Artificial tears and antibiotic drops can promote healing and prevent infection.

A person can mitigate the risk of developing PsA-related eye problems by reducing inflammation in the body.

As PsA is an inflammatory condition, a doctor may prescribe medication to control inflammation within the body, improving eye conditions related to PsA.

Anyone with PsA should consider undergoing annual eye examinations and regular doctor visits to discuss any new or existing eye-related symptoms.

Some eye conditions do not have any signs in the beginning stages. Due to this, it is vital to get regular eye checkups to detect any problems as soon as possible.

Living with PsA can be challenging. In addition to the joint pain that PsA can cause, many people may develop related eye problems.

The good news is that many PsA-related eye conditions are highly treatable.

As some conditions do not have early warning signs, an eye examination is the best way to detect any abnormalities. A doctor can help a person manage any symptoms related to PsA and eye health.

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Psoriatic arthritis and the eyes: Dry eye, glaucoma, and more - Medical News Today