StemCell Therapy

An arthritis diet should focus on anti-inflammatory foods like fruits and vegetables.

Image Credit: SDI Productions/E+/GettyImages

There's no magic bullet when it comes to treating arthritis, unfortunately. But if you have the condition, you might find some symptom relief by changing what you eat.

Here's the breakdown on how diet and arthritis are linked, and the best and worst foods to eat for joint pain, stiffness and swelling.

The Inflammation Connection

There are more than 100 types of arthritis, but each is marked by chronic inflammation in the joints that can cause swelling and pain, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Acute or short-term inflammation is actually a healthy response that helps protect the body. A fever, which helps you fight off infection, is an example of acute inflammation. This type of inflammation goes away when the threat to the body is gone, according to a December 2019 paper published in Nature Medicine.

Chronic or long-term inflammation is that same response, but all the time. You don't go walking around with a fever 24/7, but inflammation is present in your body to a lesser extent. This chronic inflammation is linked to conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, according to the Nature Medicine paper.

"Diet can absolutely impact arthritis be either exasperating inflammatory symptoms or by quieting inflammation."

Inflammation occurs for different reasons across the various types of arthritis. In osteoarthritis, the most common type, inflammation is caused by wear and tear on the joints, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease, so inflammation occurs because the body mistakenly attacks the joints, per the CDC.

Tamping down that inflammatory response can help manage the pain and other uncomfortable symptoms of arthritis, and that's where your diet comes in: Certain foods can increase or decrease inflammation in the body.

"At the root of the pathology of arthritis is chronic and unchecked inflammation," says Liz Wyosnick, RDN, dietitian and owner of Equilibriyum in Seattle, Washington. "Diet can absolutely impact arthritis be either exasperating inflammatory symptoms or by quieting [inflammation]."

Foods to Limit or Avoid With Arthritis

According to the Arthritis Foundation, the following foods can trigger or worsen inflammation:

This really means "added sugar," which is sugar added to food during processing (think: sweetened beverages like soda and snack foods). You should limit your added sugar to 6 teaspoons per day for women and children, and no more than 9 teaspoons per day for men, according to the American Heart Association.(For reference, 6 teaspoons is about 25 grams and 9 teaspoons is about 38 grams; a 12-ounce can of Coke has 39 grams of sugar.)

Limiting the amount of saturated fat in your diet means eating less red meat, whole-fat dairy, butter and cheese.

Decreasing saturated fats in the diet and replacing them with monounsaturated fats (like nuts, avocado and vegetable oils) may help reduce the progression of knee osteoarthritis, according to March 2017 research published in Arthritis Care and Research.

These are manmade fats that the Food and Drug Administration banned as an ingredient in foods in 2015. However, they're still found in very small amounts in processed baked good and shelf-stable foods that have "partially hydrogenated" in the ingredients list. Here are six foods to avoid.

Omega 6s aren't bad per se, but the issue is when the ratio of omega-6s to omega-3s is off. The goal is to lower the ratio, which means less omega-6 fatty acids and more omega-3s to help reduce the pain associated with arthritis inflammation, according to a February 2018 article published in the Clinical Journal of Pain.

Try to steer clear of processed meats and opt instead for seafood and leaner cuts of grass-fed meat.

Aim to eat a 3- to 6-ounce serving of fatty fish two to four times a week, per the Arthritis Foundation, and opt for fish that are relatively low in mercury, such as salmon, sardines, Atlantic mackerel and black cod.

Gluten is the protein found in wheat, rye and barley, while casein is a protein found in dairy foods. If you have a sensitivity to either of these, this could trigger an inflammatory response.

The link isn't entirely clear, but some individuals with rheumatoid arthritis have found relief by sticking with a gluten-free vegan diet, according to February 2018 research published in Open Rheumatology Journal.

"The underlying theory is that when you go on a plant-based diet, you cut back on animal products (dairy and meat), and hence, exclude most of the foods that promote inflammation, which helps control your RA symptoms," Febin Melepura, MD, medical director at the Sports & Pain Institute of New York, tells LIVESTRONG.com. "In contrast, diets high in animal products and low in fiber might aggravate your arthritis or cause more flare-ups."

What to Eat When You Have Arthritis

Fatty fish like salmon are rich in inflammation-fighting omega-3s.

Image Credit: kajakiki/E+/GettyImages

A diet focused on easing arthritis symptoms typically includes foods that can help decrease inflammation, not promote it. But "there's no one-size-fits-all approach," Dr. Melepura says. "What works for one may not work for another."

With that in mind, here are some loose guidelines to follow, but be sure to adjust where you need to based on your individual symptoms.

It's no secret that fruits and vegetables are recommended for good health, but their role in helping relieve arthritis pain lies in special compounds called phytochemicals, which are responsible for fighting inflammation.

"I would particularly recommend including fruits such as pomegranates, blueberries, raspberries and strawberries," Dr. Melepura says, "as they are a rich source of polyphenols including anthocyanins, quercetin and various types of phenolic acids. All these compounds are widely known for their potent anti-inflammatory effects."

Herbs and spices are also a source of anti-inflammatory compounds.

"Parsley, basil, cilantro, gingerroot, cinnamon and turmeric are some of the most nutrient-dense and anti-inflammatory foods available, so I guide people to incorporate these at most meals," Wyosnick says.

These special fats are found mainly in fish, but you can also find them in walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds. Dr. Melepura calls these "joint-friendly fats" and says "studies show that consumption of omega-3 fats lowers the levels of two inflammatory proteins, which are C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6." It should be noted, though, that this has been shown in people with fairly serious diseases, so the research may not translate for those with minor arthritis.

Olive oil is a major component of the Mediterranean diet, which is filled with fruits and vegetables, fish, legumes and nuts. Olive oil is a monounsaturated fat and researchers believe it's one of the reasons why the Mediterranean diet is good for reducing inflammation.

Extra-virgin olive oil specifically has been shown to improve gut health and also cut back on inflammation in the body, according to August 2019 research published in Nutrients.

To help tame arthritis inflammation, fill your plate with fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, fatty fish and healthy fats, such as olive oil. Cut back on sugar and saturated fats, and avoid trans fats completely.

Navigating Your Arthritis With Diet

If your specific type of arthritis has you confused about which type of foods you should eat, don't let that worry you. "An anti-inflammatory eating pattern can be perfectly safe for any type of arthritis," Wyosnick assures.

If you have food allergies or want to confirm an allergy or intolerance that may be aggravating your arthritis pain, speak with your doctor.

In addition, a registered dietitian can help you evaluate your current diet, remove troublesome foods from your diet and add in foods that may help provide some relief.

Read the original here:
The Best and Worst Foods to Eat When You Have Arthritis - LIVESTRONG.COM

A GLADSTONE man caught drug driving said he drank speed to help with his arthritis.

Mark Leslie Gordon, 55, pleaded guilty in Gladstone Magistrates Court on Monday to drug driving.

He was intercepted on the Dawson Highway, West Gladstone, on July 25 where he returned a positive drug test.

Further tests showed the presence of MDMA and methamphetamine.

Gordon was caught once again on September 6 on Campbell St.

He told police he drank speed to help with his arthritis.

Further tests showed the presence of THC and meth in his system.

During a search, police located a white crystal substance which weighed less than 1g, which Gordon said was speed.

Defence lawyer Cassandra Ditchfield said her client had been on a waiting list for five years to see a surgeon to treat his rheumatoid arthritis which caused him pain.

She said a friend had suggested he try using the drug to treat the pain as he was not willing to use prescription pain killers due to a family history of liver failure.

She asked the court to consider Gordon had no offending for 11 years.

Gordon was fined $1000 and disqualified from driving for four months.

Convictions were recorded.

Read more drug driver stories:

Mechanic loses licence for half a year

Gladstone man stopped drug driving on way home from library

Recreational user had drugs left over from party

Follow this link:
Man drank speed to help with arthritis - Observer

Arthritis affects over 350 million people in the world.

It is also a leading cause of disability and can affect mobility and interrupt peoples ability to perform simple daily tasks.

World Arthritis Day was on October 12, which aimed to raise awareness about rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. Although strides have been made to find suitable treatments, many continue to suffer from debilitating pain.

Owner and founder of The Harvest Table, Catherine Clark, said there are natural remedies which can help manage symptoms associated with arthritis.

There is no cure for arthritis, but if you support your body with the right foods and supplements, you can alleviate some of the pain so that it doesnt become a hindrance in your daily life, said Clark.

Clark added that arthritis can affect ones energy levels, cause pain, and is a direct result of a loss of collagen in the bones.

The key is to find solutions that will help you feel less fatigued, while also managing pain and replenishing the collagen lost, she said.

ALSO READ:

Breast Cancer Awareness: Women urged to regularly self-examine

Clark offers three natural remedies to manage arthritis pain:

Anti-inflammatory foodsArthritis fatigue is real, and according to the Arthritis Foundation, unchecked inflammation and pain largely contribute to your energy levels, along with certain medications that can cause drowsiness.Boosting your energy starts with nourishing your body with the right foods, especially those with high anti-inflammatory properties that help your bodies repair process. This will not only alleviate pain but will reduce the inflammation in your body. To effectively manage your arthritis, reduce the amounts of processed foods and saturated fats as these will only further contribute to your symptoms. Instead, choose fresh fruits and vegetables, especially green vegetables and berries. Also include fish and nuts, which both contain high anti-inflammatory properties.

Slow and gentle movementMovement is a critical part of recovery when addressing the symptoms of arthritis as it retains the suppleness of your joints. Various low impact movements can specifically tackle flexibility, strength and generally support your joints to prevent injury. Prolonged lack of movement can lead to chronic stiffness that results into joint immobility which will impact your ability to complete daily activities. Yoga is an effective solution as it reduces joint pain and also eases stress, tension and promotes better quality sleep.

Collagen-rich supplementsCollagen consists of protein building blocks, otherwise known as amino acids, which aid in cushioning our joints. When you have arthritis, this cushioning diminishes which then affects your cartilage and leads to your bones rubbing against each other without protection. Supplements like Bone Broth and Collagen granules help replenish the collagen content in your body. Bone Broth is a natural anti-inflammatory, so when you have it as part of your diet, you benefit in more ways than one. Collagen granules can help reduce both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis joint pain, improve flexibility, and helps form new bones. Although all the collagen you ingest does not go straight to your bones, increasing your intake makes them readily available for your body tissues.

Natural remedies are meant to support your body so that you can better manage pain and other symptoms associated with arthritis. The idea is to implement small and manageable changes that contribute to you feeling better and having the energy and ability to get through the day without pain getting in the way, Clark concludes.

Also follow us on:

See more here:
Photo of Try these three natural remedies to manage arthritis pain - Kempton Express

16 October 2020

Scientists from the University of Sheffield and University of Manchester have been awarded 265,000 from the British Heart Foundation, to investigate the links between vascular dementia and heart disease, and test whether a drug currently used to treat arthritis could also be used as a treatment for vascular dementia.

Vascular dementia is common, accounting for 15 percent of all cases of dementia. Caused by an impaired blood flow to the brain, symptoms of vascular dementia include confusion, slow-thinking, and changes in mood and behaviour.

Heart disease is a known risk factor for vascular dementia, and preliminary research by the Sheffield scientists has shown that blood flow in the brain is substantially affected by heart disease. The new study will continue this research to examine in more detail how heart disease and vascular dementia interact together, potentially making the disease burden worse.

The project will also investigate an anti-inflammatory treatment to reduce neuroinflammation in the brain and test whether this slows down, or reduces the severity of, vascular dementia.

Led by Professor Sheila Francis, from the University of Sheffields Department of Infection, Immunity, and Cardiovascular Disease, the project brings together the disciplines of cardiovascular biology and pathology, neurovascular function and neuropathology.

Dr Jason Berwick and Dr Clare Howarth from the Department of Psychology at the University of Sheffield also make up members of the research team who worked in collaboration with a team from the University of Manchester led by Professor Stuart Allan and Dr Emmanuel Pinteaux.

Professor Sheila Francis, from the University of Sheffield, said: We noticed quite a few years ago that laboratory mice with severe atherosclerosis (a type of heart disease) exhibited significant behaviour changes. On closer examination, their neurovascular function was altered, leading to the death of brain neurons and increased brain inflammation caused by a protein called interleukin-1.

The study will compare this new model with the commonly used laboratory models of vascular dementia to investigate whether an anti-inflammatory drug against interleukin-1 already used successfully to treat arthritis and in clinical trials for use in stroke patients, could also improve neurovascular function in both cases.

Professor Stuart Allan from the University of Manchester, commented: We are delighted to be involved with this project. We have worked on the role of the protein interleukin-1 in stroke for many years. Our research has led to several clinical trials of an anti-interleukin-1 therapy in stroke, and the possibility that this same treatment might work in vascular dementia is really exciting.

It is hoped the study will lead to anti-interleukin-1 therapies becoming a useful treatment for vascular dementia.

The work forms part of the research of two of the flagship institutes at the University of Sheffield:

Subreena Simrick, Senior Research Adviser at the BHF, said: There is no cure for vascular dementia. Currently, all that doctors can do is prescribe drugs which can slow down its progression.

By funding this research, we hope to take a step towards changing that and bring hope to people affected by this cruel disease.

Unfortunately, our ability to fund important research like this is threatened by the impact of coronavirus on our fundraising. Now, more than ever, we need the support of the public so we can continue to support projects that could transform the lives of those with heart and circulatory diseases.

The University of Sheffield

With almost 29,000 of the brightest students from over 140 countries, learning alongside over 1,200 of the best academics from across the globe, the University of Sheffield is one of the worlds leading universities.

A member of the UKs prestigious Russell Group of leading research-led institutions, Sheffield offers world-class teaching and research excellence across a wide range of disciplines.

Unified by the power of discovery and understanding, staff and students at the university are committed to finding new ways to transform the world we live in.

Sheffield is the only university to feature in The Sunday Times 100 Best Not-For-Profit Organisations to Work For 2018 and for the last eight years has been ranked in the top five UK universities for Student Satisfaction by Times Higher Education.

Sheffield has six Nobel Prize winners among former staff and students and its alumni go on to hold positions of great responsibility and influence all over the world, making significant contributions in their chosen fields.

Global research partners and clients include Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Unilever, AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Siemens and Airbus, as well as many UK and overseas government agencies and charitable foundations.

Read the original:
Arthritis drug to be investigated as possible treatment for vascular dementia - Latest - News - The - University of Sheffield News

The latest report on the Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics market is an all-inclusive assessment of the business sphere and highlights the vital parameters of the industry including current trends, industry size, market share, present renumeration, periodic deliverables, and profit estimates over the forecast timeline.

New Market Research Report on Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market size | Industry Segment by Applications (Prescription and Over-the-Counter (OTC), by Type (Pharmaceuticals and Biopharmaceuticals), By Regional Outlook - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Opportunity, Latest Trends, and Forecast to 2025.

The report provides a comprehensive evaluation of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics market performance during the study period. Insights pertaining to drivers that affect the market dynamics, as well as the growth pattern over the predicted timeframe are documented in the report. It further elaborates the challenges of the market and define the growth prospects in the forthcoming years.

Request Sample Copy of this Report @ https://www.express-journal.com/request-sample/224984

Unveiling the geographical landscape of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics market:

Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market bifurcation: USA, Europe, Japan, China, India, South East Asia.

Summary of the regional landscape examined in the report:

An exhaustive review of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics market with respect to product type and application scope:

Product scope:

Product types:

Key highlights of the report:

Applications scope:

Application segmentation:

Vital data entailed in the report:

Other takeaways from the Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics market report:

Elucidating details regarding the competitive terrain of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics market:

Major players of the industry:

Key parameters included in the report:

Highlights of the Report:

Request Customization on This Report @ https://www.express-journal.com/request-for-customization/224984

Read more here:
Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market: Development Factors and Investment Analysis by Leading Manufacturers - Express Journal

Although rheumatoid arthritis (RA) only affects 1% of adults in most countries, up to 17% of these patients have a major depressive disorder (MDD). However, not all patients are assessed for their mental well-being even though detecting and managing depression could optimize the care of patients with RA, according to a review published in Rheumatology and Therapy.

Not only is depression 2 times more common in patients with RA than in the general population, but studies have shown there is a bidirectional relationship: the chronic inflammation impairs effective coping behaviors to stress, which results in depression that in turns leads to worse long-term outcomes.

In RA, quality of life (QoL) is significantly decreased because of pain, fatigue, and disability, causing mood change in the form of anxiety and depression, the authors wrote. Observational studies have described a high prevalence of depression and anxiety in RA; [MDDs] are detected in 17% of RA patients, and local and systemic inflammation plays an important role in anxiety and depression.

The authors reviewed previously conducted studies on the impact of depression on disease activity in RA and vice versa.

Patient-reported outcomes like baseline bodily pain and fatigue not only affect QoL and high disease activity but also likely increase depression. There is a relationship between the disease activity score using 28 joints and QoL, and patients with a higher degree of pain had a higher reduction in QoL, the researchers wrote.

A survey by the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society found that 90% of patients with RA reported fatigue was the main factor causing low mood and depression, with 89% reporting they experienced chronic fatigue and 79% never being assessed to determine their level of fatigue.

RA patients report the effect of the disease on their mental well-being and frequently describe tearfulness, irritability, frustration, anxiety, and depression, the authors explained.

Depression is the most common mental health disorder associated with RA, and presents with low mood, low self-esteem, fatigue, lethargy, and more. In addition, MDD can present with more aggressive symptoms of depression and can potentially be fatal if left untreated since it also presents with suicidal ideation.

Studies have shown that depression reduces medication adherence and that patients with depression may have reduced physical exercise and social interaction because their coping responses to pain, fatigue, and disability are impaired.

RA patients diagnosed with depression have reduced rates of clinically significant RA remission, increased pain, worse function and quality of life, and increased mortality, the authors wrote. PROs hence become an essential factor for optimising the holistic care of RA.

The researchers noted that studies have found that biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and conventional synthetic DMARDs can improve depressive symptoms in patients with RA. However, when depression is present in patients with RA before they start on biologic DMARDs, it can reduce treatment response.

Further observational studies for early detection of anxiety and depression in RA patients using web-based questionnaires would be of help for both patients and clinicians, the authors concluded.

Reference

Lwin MN, Serhal L, Holroyd C, Edwards CJ. Rheumatoid arthritis: the impact of mental health on disease: a narrative review. Rheumatol Ther. 2020;7(3):457-471. doi:10.1007/s40744-020-00217-4

Read the original post:
The Bidirectional Relationship Between Depression and Rheumatoid Arthritis - AJMC.com Managed Markets Network

Objectives:Identify 24-hour activity-sleep profiles in adults with arthritis and explore factors associated with profile membership.

Methods:Cross-sectional cohort, using baseline data from two randomized trials studying activity counselling for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or knee osteoarthritis (OA). Participants wore activity monitors for 1-week and completed surveys for demographics, mood (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) and sitting and walking habits (Self-Reported Habit Index). 1440 minutes / day stratified into minutes off-body, sleeping, resting, non-ambulatory, and intermittent or purposeful ambulation. Latent class analysis determined cluster numbers; baseline-category multinomial logit regression identified factors associated with cluster membership.

Results:172 people (RA: 51%, OA:30%, SLE: 19%). Clusters: High Sitters: 6.9 hours sleep, 1.6 hours rest, 13.2 hours non-ambulatory, 1.6 hours intermittent and 0.3 hours purposeful walking. Low Sleepers: 6.5 hours sleep, 1.2 hours rest, 12.2 hours non-ambulatory, 3.3 hours intermittent and 0.6 hours purposeful walking. High Sleepers: 8.4 hours sleep, 1.9 hours rest, 10.4 hours non-ambulatory, 2.5 hours intermittent and 0.3 hours purposeful walking. Balanced Activity: 7.4 hours sleep, 1.5 hours sleep, 9.4 hours non-ambulatory, 4.4 hours intermittent and 0.8 hours purposeful walking. Younger age [OR: 0.95 (95% CI: 0.91-0.99)], weaker occupational sitting habit [OR: 0.55 (95% CI: 0.41-0.76)] and stronger walking outside habit [OR: 1.43 (95% CI: (1.06-1.91)] were each associated with Balanced Activity relative to High Sitters.

Conclusions:Meaningful subgroups were identified based on 24-hour activity-sleep patterns. Suggesting tailoring interventions based on 24-hour activity-sleep profiles may be indicated, particularly in adults with stronger habitual sitting or weaker walking behaviors.

Keywords:24-hour activity and sleep profiles; accelerometry; adults; arthritis; habit strength; latent class analysis.

See more here:
24-hour Activity and Sleep Profiles for Adults Living with Arthritis: Habits Matter - DocWire News

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and stiffness in and around the joints. In fact, there are over 100 types of arthritis that affect the hand and wrist joints, with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and gout being the main offenders, exercise physiotherapist Kusal Goonewardena tells Starts at 60.

[This can] result in decreased mobility, reduced strength and a lack of function especially grip strength and inability to use fingers effectively, he explains.

The good news is exercise can help certain hand exercises can help to reduce pain, stiffness and swelling, and improve joint flexibility. So what are some good exercises that can help ease the pain? Below, with the help of Kusal, weve listed five easy hand exercises that you can do from the comfort of your own home. Just be sure to check with your doctor or physiotherapist before starting a new routine.

Place your palms together in a prayer position. Then keep your palms pressing together as you move your hands above your head. Hold for 30 seconds before moving your hands down. Kusal says to repeat this step two more times.

Read more here:
5 easy hand exercises for people with arthritis - Starts at 60

In patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the diagnostic performance of screening instruments for depression was good, while screening instruments for anxiety were more variable, according to study results published in Arthritis Care & Research.

Previous studies reported higher rates of depression and anxiety in patients with RA, compared with the general population. As there are limited data on the diagnostic performances of available tools for assessing depression and anxiety in RA, the goal of the current study was to investigate the validity, reliability and optimal cut point of multiple screening instruments for mental disorders for patients with RA.

The study cohort included adults with RA, recruited through the Arthritis Centre clinic in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and through community clinics between November 2014 and July 2016.

Each participant completed the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2 or PHQ-9), the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System depression short form 8a and anxiety short form 8a, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale anxiety score (HADS-A) and depression score (HADS-D), the Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 2-and 7-item scales, and the Kessler-6 scale.

Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Axis I Disorders (SCID-1) research version was used as the criterion standard to confirm clinical depression and anxiety disorders in the study participants.

The study included 150 participants (127 women, mean age 59.8 years) who completed the SCID-1 shortly after enrollment. Using the criterion standard of the SCID-1 to confirm clinical diagnosis, the prevalence of current depression was 11.3%, prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder was 7.3%, and prevalence of any anxiety disorder was 19.3%.

For depression, Kessler-6 scale and the HADS-D (cut point 11) had the lowest sensitivity (35% for both) and the highest specificity (96% and 94%, respectively). Sensitivity was highest for the PHQ-2 (88%) and PHQ-9 (87%), with specificity of 84% and 77%, respectively.

For anxiety, sensitivity was highest for the HADS-A with a cut point 11 points (91%), and lowest for HADS-A with a cut point 8 points. While the specificity was lowest for the former (45%), it was the highest for the latter (91%).

All depression and anxiety instruments had acceptable internal consistency and reliability. For depression instruments, internal consistency ranged between 84% to 97% and the test-retest reliability interclass correlation coefficient ranged between 84% and 88%. For anxiety instruments, internal consistency ranged between 69% to 93% and the test-retest reliability interclass correlation coefficient ranged between 69% and 83%.

Based on the area under the curve, the diagnostic performances of all the depression and anxiety instruments were remarkably similar. While the diagnostic performance for depression was generally good, it was not excellent (area under the curve <0.90). The diagnostic instruments for anxiety were less accurate than those for depression; performance was better for identifying generalized anxiety disorder than for any anxiety disorder.

The study had several limitations, among them are the inclusion of patients from the same region indicating that the findings may not apply to other settings, limited access to biologic therapies and mental health support, potential participant bias, and potential limitations due to administration of multiple instruments at the same time.

[T]he optimal choice of screening instrument, and optimal cut point, may vary depending on the situation and purpose of administration. Regardless, incorporation of screening tools for depression and anxiety into clinical practice may improve outcomes for patients with RA, wrote the researchers.

Hitchon CA, Zhang L, Peschken CA, et al. Validity and reliability of screening measures for depression and anxiety disorders in rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2020;72(8):1130-1139.

More here:
Diagnostic Performances of Depression and Anxiety Screening Measures in Rheumatoid Arthritis - Rheumatology Advisor

Novel selective oral Janus activated kinase (JAK) inhibitors, tofacitinib, baricitinib, and upadicitinib, improve disease control and quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but there are also several safety concerns, including potential increased risk for infection and venous thromboembolism, according to study results published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.

As a family of intracellular tyrosine kinases, JAKs are involved in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. There are 4 members in the JAK family: JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, and receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2). Currently, there are 3 FDA-approved oral JAK inhibitors for the treatment of RA: tofacitinib, which inhibits JAK1/3 with less inhibition of JAK2 and TYK2; baricitinib, an inhibitor of JAK 1/2 with moderate activity against TYK2; and upadacitinib, which is a JAK1-selective inhibitor.

The goal of the current systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the safety and efficacy of these 3 drugs for the treatment of RA.

The researchers performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library through December 11, 2019, to identify randomized controlled trials that included adult patients with active RA, treated with tofacitinib, baricitinib, or upadicitinib. All included studies determined efficacy and safety outcomes.

Of 116 identified clinical trials, 20 studies (8982 unique patients) with a low risk of bias were included in the analysis: 12 tofacitinib trials, 5 baricitinib studies, and 3 designed to test upadacitinib.

All JAK inhibitors were found to be effective in reducing RA disease activity, and the overall pooled analysis showed that the response rate according to American College of Rheumatology 20% (ACR) criteria was 2-fold higher than placebo (relative risk [RR], 2.03; 95% CI, 1.87-2.20; P <.001), and all treatments were associated with significant decreases in Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) (mean differences, -0.31; 95 CI, -0.34 to -0.28; P <.001).

Tofacitinib at a dose of 10 mg, twice daily, was associated with the highest response rate according to ACR20 (RR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.97-3.14; P <.001) and the most statistically significant improvement in HAQ-DI score (mean difference, -0.38; 95% CI, -0.44 to -0.31; P <.001).

The overall incidence of adverse events was higher among patients treated with JAK inhibitors (RR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.05-1.13; P <.001), but the frequency of serious adverse events in any of the treatment groups was not significantly different compared with placebo.

Tofacitinib given at a dose of 10 mg, twice daily, was associated with the highest risk for infection (RR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.72-4.41), followed by upadacitinib, 15 mg, daily (RR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.14-1.60) and baricitinib, 4 mg, daily (RR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.12-1.45). On the other hand, treatments with tofacitinib 5 mg, twice daily, baricitinib at a daily dose of 2 mg, or upadacitinib 30 mg daily, were not associated with an increased risk for infection.

Data on venous thromboembolism was only available from upadacitinib trials, indicating the JAK inhibitor was not associated with a significant increase in risk for venous thromboembolic disease.

The study had several limitations, including the small number of trials with baricitinib and upadacitinib, significant heterogeneity in study design, follow-up duration and treatment duration. Furthermore, in some trials patients in the placebo group switched to active treatment during the follow-up.

Longer-term follow-up and additional trials with head-to-head comparison of tofacitinib, baricitinib, and upadacitinib, as well as additional information from ongoing trials of these and other JAK inhibitors, including peficitinib and filgotinib, will be important to further determine both efficacy and the safety profile of these agents in the management of RA, wrote the researchers.

Wang F, Sun L, Wang S, et al. Efficacy and safety of tofacitinib, baricitinib, and upadacitinib for rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Mayo Clin Proc. 2020;95(7):1404-1419. doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.01.039

Read more here:
Efficacy and Safety of JAK Inhibitors for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis - Rheumatology Advisor

It can leave the joints feeling sore and inflamed, and could even damage the surrounding cartilage or tendons.

On some occasions, the symptoms can extend to other parts of the body, including the lungs or heart.

Around 400,000 people in the UK have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.

One of the key warning signs of the condition is developing a high fever.

READ MORE: Rheumatoid arthritis - vitamin to reduce risk

"Rheumatoid arthritis mainly attacks the joints, usually many joints at once," said the US Centers for Disease Control Prevention.

"With rheumatoid arthritis, there are times when symptoms get worse, known as flares, and times when symptoms get better, known as remission.

"Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include: Pain or aching in more than one joint, stiffness in more than one joint, weight loss, fever, fatigue, weakness.

"Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are not specific and can look like signs and symptoms of other inflammatory joint diseases."

Read the original post:
Five common signs of painful rheumatoid arthritis that you may be missing - Express

Active wheelchairs resemble most of the sports wheelchairs available in the market and are easy to maneuver. These wheelchairs are utilized on a daily basis and are usually more of a premium product than the usual, standard wheelchairs. It also comprises wheelchairs for people who want to remain active in life. Most of the sports wheelchairs are the active wheelchairs. Easily navigable, these wheelchairs come in two different forms, which are rigid or folding. These chairs can be easily adjusted to cater to the need of the users and their lifestyle, which is estimated to support growth of the global active wheelchair market over the period of forecast, from 2019 to 2029.

Rising in the number of disabled and geriatric population across the globe is likely to accentuate the demand for active wheelchairs in the near future. In addition, constant efforts to better the efficiency of these wheelchairs, favorable initiatives by the government, and rise in the incidences of chronic diseases is likely to trigger growth of the global active wheelchair market in the years to come.

Get Brochure of the Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=6824

Type, indication, and region are the three key parameters based on which the global active wheelchair market has been divided. The objective of such segmentation is to offer a clearer, 360-degree view of the market.

Global Active Wheelchair Market: Notable Developments

The global active wheelchair market has witnessed significant developments in the recent years. One of such developments pertaining to the market is mentioned below:

Some of the key players in the global active wheelchair market comprise the below-mentioned:

Global Active Wheelchair Market: Key Trends

The following drivers, restraints, and opportunities characterize global active wheelchair market over the assessment period, from 2019 to 2029.

Buy this Premium Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/checkout?rep_id=6824&ltype=S

In comparison with a traditional wheelchair, this active one is considered an upscale product. Active wheelchairs are considered a blessing for people who prefer to remain active, which is why it has gained tremendous popularity in the last few years.

According to the findings of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 54.4 million adults in the US were suffering from arthritis in the period that spanned from 2013 to 2015. In addition, it is also forecasted that nearly 36.4 million people with arthritis is estimated to have limited activities by 2040. With such increased prevalence of disabilities, the global active wheelchair market is likely to observe considerable growth over the period of assessment, from 2019 to 2019.

In addition, rise in the disposable income of the people together with increasing approvals of product is forecasted to work in favor of the global active wheelchair market in the years to come. There are many government policies encouraging adoption of these wheelchairs, which is likely to pave way for accelerated adoption of active wheelchairs in the years to come.

Global Active Wheelchair Market: Geographical Analysis

Expanding base of geriatric population together with rising expenditure on healthcare is likely to place Europe at the forefront of the global active wheelchair market. The dominance of Europe over the market is likely to continue throughout the period of forecast. Asia Pacific is estimated to come up as a rapidly growing region with rising disposable income and inclination toward spending on premium medical devices.

Get Table of Content of the Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=6824

The global active wheelchair market is segmented as:

Type

Indication

About TMR Research

TMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.

Contact:

Rohit Bhisey

TMR Research,

3739 Balboa St # 1097,

San Francisco, CA 94121

United States

Tel: +1-415-520-1050

Visit Site: https://www.tmrresearch.com/

Excerpt from:
Active Wheelchair Market | High Prevalence of Arthritis to Contribute toward Spiraling Demand for Active Wheelchairs - BioSpace

Oscar Klefbom has played with shoulder pain for a few years. And hes lived with it daily. His shoulder discomfort has even made sleeping uncomfortable at times during the hockey season.

Two different sources confirmed Klefboms shoulder ailment has been an issue for years.

Im told he is dealing with chronic arthritis in his shoulder, and surgery isnt an easy fix. There is no guarantee it will solve the problem, and the major concern for Klefbom is if he has surgery and nothing improves, it might make it worse. A medical person explained that one reason to have surgery would be to debride the joint and possibly take a part of the acromion (a bony process on the scapula) to give him better function in his shoulder.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Today, Oilers GM Ken Holland addressed Klefboms status.

I dont think its that simple, said Holland responding to why didnt Klefbom have surgery once the Oilers were eliminated.

If he needs it, why doesnt he get surgery and why wait two months? Then youve lost two months. If it was that easy, he would make those decisions but its not that easy. He played with some pain. In February we shut him down for I think nine games. He went to see a shoulder specialist, and again its not cut and dry.

Its not as simple as you do have surgery or you dont have surgery. I think Klef needs to make a decision based upon the information that hes given from his body and the doctors hes seen a couple of shoulder specialists and see how he wants to proceed.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

In past years the season has ended and theres been a long offseason for it (his shoulder) to get better and he comes back and he plays. But as he goes forward each year the body is another year older and beat up a little more. He has to decide how he wants to proceed and again, from the clubs perspective, would you like to have an answer? Yeah. But, I always think Ive got to respect that this is an important player on the team, but hes also a person who has to make a decision that is going to be very important to him going forward in his life and I have to respect that.

Hollands response about it being an issue that isnt easily fixed by surgery matches with my sources confirming Klefbom is dealing with arthritis.

Klefbom has tried different treatments to fix it, and often the pain subsides, but then it reappears during the wear and tear of an NHL season.

Holland also mentioned it is likely Klefbom wont be ready to start the season, and could possibly be sidelined for the entire year.

Will surgery help? They dont know and that is why Klefbom is not rushing into a decision. It could have a huge impact on how much longer he is able to play.

See the article here:
Edmonton Oilers: Oscar Klefbom Dealing With Arthritis - Oilers Nation

Low-impact exercise like biking is a great way to keep your joints healthy.

Image Credit: adamkaz/E+/GettyImages

More than 54 million Americans have arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That's more than 1 in 5 people. While there are some known risk factors that can lead to this common condition, many such as a person's genes are outside of our control.

But not all of them. "Some [forms of arthritis] are preventable, others are modifiable," says Daniel Wallace, MD, rheumatologist and spokesperson for Voltaren.

There are also many tactics that can help improve your overall joint health. That's important, since healthy joints allow you to move with ease and aid in protecting your bones, per the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMSD).

Arthritis refers to any type of pain or swelling in the joints, and there are more than 100 varieties, per Stuart D. Kaplan, MD, chief of rheumatology at Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside, New York.

The most common type is osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation. As protective cartilage wears away, bones touch at joints sometimes, youll hear OA referred to as wear-and-tear arthritis.

The other most commonly diagnosed variety is rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an inflammatory type. Its an auto-immune disease, which means the body is fighting itself. It can attack the joints, which become red-hot and swollen, Dr. Kaplan says.

Some risk factors apply to only one of these two common forms.

Here are a few science-backed tactics that'll help reduce your arthritis risk factors, along with promoting good joint health.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Carrying around extra pounds puts extra pressure on your knees, Dr. Tariq says.

Image Credit: Rostislav_Sedlacek/iStock/GettyImages

"Obesity is a big risk factor for osteoarthritis, especially in the weight-bearing areas, like the knees and lower back," Saad Tariq, MD, a rheumatologist with Ortho Illinois, tells LIVESTRONG.com.

The pressure on your knees adds up to 1.5 times your body weight, per Harvard Health Publishing and that's on level ground; it's even higher on inclines (like steps) and can be up to five times your body weight when you squat to, say, tie your shoe.

That's why people with obesity are more likely to develop OA in these areas, per the CDC. And since excess fat leads to inflammation-causing proteins circulating in your body, obesity ups your risk of developing OA in your hands, too, per the Arthritis Foundation.

"Trying to modify the diet, and trying to exercise to lose weight can definitely prevent end-stage bone-on-bone arthritis [osteoarthritis] and chronic pain," Dr. Tariq says. (More on diet and exercise in a minute.)

2. Consider Following a Mediterranean Diet

There's no diet that can prevent arthritis (nor, for that matter, is there a diet that can cure this condition). That said, a healthy diet will help you manage your weight.

And there's one diet that might be particularly helpful to follow: "The Mediterranean diet has been shown consistently to be helpful for reducing inflammation," Dr. Tariq says. That's key, since both RA and OA involve inflammation in the joints.

Following the Mediterranean diet means eating lots of vegetables, fruits, fish, whole grains and healthy fats, while limiting red meat, according to the Mayo Clinic. It's linked to weight loss and a lower BMI, per a March 2019 review published in Nutrients.

The Mediterranean diet was helpful for managing symptoms in people with RA, but there wasn't enough evidence to support that the diet prevented RA in a December 2017 systematic review published in Rheumatology International.

But this diet may help to prevent RA in former and current smokers, according to a September 2020 study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology. And, while acknowledging some limitations in studies, an August 2018 review published in the journal Nutrients noted that OA prevalence is lower in people with high levels of adherence to the Mediterranean diet.

An apple a day may do more than keep the doctor away.

Image Credit: DjelicS/E+/GettyImages

Arthritis is an inflammatory disease the symptoms of this condition spring from inflammation in the joints.

Consuming a high-fiber diet can decrease inflammation and improve osteoarthritis, Dr. Tariq says. Consuming higher fiber levels was associated with a lower risk of developing symptomatic OA in the knee, per a May 2017 study in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes are all good sources of fiber, per the Mayo Clinic.

It may also be helpful to limit or avoid inflammatory foods that can make symptoms worse. These include refined carbohydrates (think: white bread and pastries), fried foods, sugary beverages like soda, red and processed meats and margarine, according to Harvard Health Publishing.

It's hard to even tally up the reasons to quit smoking because this habit is so negative to nearly every facet of your health.

Smoking is a risk factor for developing RA, per the CDC.

It's a preventable risk factor for osteoarthritis, too, Dr. Tariq says, because smoking can lead to bone deterioration.

Gum disease and RA are connected.

Image Credit: Natalia Bodrova/iStock/GettyImages

Practicing good dental hygiene brushing several times a day, and flossing too can help prevent gingivitis (gum disease), which may lead to RA, Dr. Tariq says.

Research certainly shows a link between gingivitis and RA. It's possible that inflammation associated with the teeth and mouth may "play a role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis," per a May 2013 review in Current Opinion Rheumatology. And more recently, a December 2016 study in Science Translation Medicine found that the bacteria involved in gingivitis also triggers the inflammatory response found in people with RA.

More research is needed here, though, as the Cleveland Clinic notes, to fully understand if one condition triggers the other one. Still, since gum disease isn't a desirable outcome either, it's a good idea to take care of your pearly whites.

Along with helping you to maintain a healthy weight, exercise is also good for keeping muscles and joints healthy, Dr. Kaplan says.

"Any kind of exercise that doesn't strain muscles is good," he says, and cautions people to start gradually especially if it's been a while since you've been active and build up to a higher tolerance and endurance.

The stronger your muscles, the better they're able to protect your joints and potentially prevent osteoarthritis, per University of Iowa Health Care. Plus, physical activity helps prevent stiffness in your joints, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center.

"In general, I recommend range-of-motion exercises things that keep the joints moving, like walking, swimming, bicycling," Dr. Kaplan says.

7. Prevent Joint Injuries

Working to strengthen your knees can help reduce your risk of OA.

Image Credit: fizkes/iStock/GettyImages

OA is mainly thought of as a disease that accompanies age with a lot of use of the joint, cartilage wears down, leading to friction and the dreaded bone-on-bone contact.

But OA can also be the result of an injury caused by physical activity or accidents, per the Mayo Clinic.

Of course, you can't retreat to a bubble to avoid injuries and accidents. But there are reasonable and prudent tactics you can take to protect your joints:

Do Knee Exercises (Particularly if You Do Activities With a Risk of ACL Tears)

People who injure their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) up their risk of having knee OA later in life by three to six times, per the Osteoarthritis Action Alliance (OAAA). But by doing neuromuscular training exercises proposed by the OAAA which include balance training, plyometric jumping and core strengthening you can cut the risk of an ACL or other knee injury by 80 percent.

That's worth considering if you play a sport such as football or soccer where ACL injuries are common.

We've all heard it: Lift with your legs, not your back. But the advice is solid to protect your back, Dr. Tariq says.

To lift objects correctly, per the American Chiropractic Association, follow these best practices:

Listen to your body, Dr. Tariq recommends if something hurts, avoid doing it.

If your work involves lifting heavy objects, take particular care, Dr. Tariq says. Try to regularly do back exercises and strengthen those muscles, he says. Exercising the parts of the body that are frequently in use will prevent stiffness and pain.

Avoid the prolonged sitting (first in front of the computer, then later on the couch) that can take over a person's day, Dr. Tariq says. Why? Joint injuries are more common if you hold a position for a while, per the American Chiropractic Association.

"Every hour, try to get up and stretch and change your posture," Dr. Tariq recommends. Doing so will reduce pain and stiffness.

Take a look at your posture when you're sitting for long periods at your desk or during a long drive, he says. Having a neutral posture helps reduce aches and prevent pain.

See the original post:
How to Prevent Arthritis and Stop Arthritis From Progressing - LIVESTRONG.COM

The white blood cell TH17 helps the immune system fight infection by promoting inflammation. But it can be too much of a good thing: Excessive inflammation from TH17 overload has been tied to autoimmune disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and arthritis.

Researchers led by Hening Lin, professor of chemistry and chemical biology in the College of Arts and Sciences and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator, have found a new way to potentially treat IBD as well as other autoimmune disorders by targeting a mechanism that regulates the signaling pathway that enables TH17 to be produced and inflammation to occur.

Their paper, A STAT3 Palmitoylation Cycle Promotes TH17 Differentiation and Colitis, published Oct. 7 in Nature. The lead author is postdoctoral researcher Mingming Zhang.

The production of TH17 is a chain reaction of sorts, built around the STAT3 protein. When the body detects infection, it secretes cytokine molecules that bind to the plasma membrane of a precursor T cell and activate the enzyme JAK2. This enzyme, in turn, is responsible for activating STAT3 by adding a phosphate group to it, a process known as phosphorylation. Once turned on, STAT3 directs the expression of the interleukin 17 gene and causes TH17 cells to develop.

At least, thats the way the process has been traditionally understood. Lins group discovered a new mechanism that regulates this pathway.

For JAK2 to phosphorate STAT3, they have to be in the same location. Previously, people didnt know theres a mechanism that promotes STAT3 going to the plasma membrane, Lin said. What we found is that there is an enzyme called DHHC7 that does that job.

The DHHC7 enzyme is a kind of matchmaker. It helps STAT3 go to the plasma membrane, where JAK2 is located, by applying a fatty acid, or lipid, to the protein. The lipids greasiness directs STAT3 to the plasma membrane so phosphorylation can take place.

However, thats only half of the process. STAT3 still needs to detach from the plasma membrane and make its way to the nucleus. Thats when another enzyme, APT2, comes in and removes the lipid modification, freeing STAT3 so it can move to the nucleus and deploy the interleukin 17 gene that will cause TH17 cells to develop.

Lins group found that inhibiting this two-part lipid modification cycle in mice prevents the STAT3 protein from making its long journey to the nucleus, thereby suppressing inflammation and, ultimately, colitis, which is a form of IBD.

Theres no effective treatment for colitis, and the exact cause is not very clear. But we do know that TH17 cells play some role in it, Lin said. We found that this cycle of putting on a lipid modification and then removing it promotes TH17 cell differentiation. And when we inhibit or delete these two enzymes, DHHC7 or APT2, we can protect the mice from getting colitis.

Other researchers have targeted JAK2 with the same goal, but that enzyme can be difficult to target specifically, and inhibiting it can create toxicity. APT2 is easier to inhibit, and disrupting it does not seem to cause any severe damage, Lin said.

After analyzing human data, Lins team determined the STAT3 signaling pathway is important in humans, too. Their new method could lead to treatment of a host of autoimmune disorders, such as Crohns disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and Type 1 diabetes. It could also help prevent the rejection of organ transplants.

Co-authors include Maurine Linder, professor and chair of the Department of Molecular Medicine in the College of Veterinary Medicine; research scientist Min Yang; research support specialist Xuan Lu; doctoral students Yilai Xu, Garrison Komaniecki and Tatsiana Kosciuk; Xiao Chen, Ph.D. 18; and researchers from Sichuan University, Nanjing University, and Nanjing Medical Univeristy.

The research was supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the National Institutes of Health.

Read more from the original source:
Researchers disrupt signaling pathway to treat colitis | Cornell Chronicle - Cornell Chronicle

Jaw cracking refers to a clicking or snapping sound in your jaw. Its also known as jaw popping.

Often, the sound occurs with jaw pain and discomfort. You might also have a hard time moving your jaw, depending on the underlying condition.

Jaw cracking usually isnt a cause for concern, though. It can even happen when you widely yawn or open your mouth.

The exception is if you recently sustained a facial injury, which can dislocate or break your jaw. In this case, youll need emergency help.

Read on to learn about the possible causes of jaw cracking and when you should see a doctor.

The potential causes of jaw cracking range in severity and type. They include:

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) attaches your jawbone to your skull. If theres something wrong with this joint, its called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

TMD can make your jaw crack or pop. Other symptoms include:

TMD often happens without a specific cause. Occasionally, clenching your teeth due to emotional stress can play a role.

Arthritis occurs when your joints become damaged and inflamed. If it affects your TMJ, it can cause TMD and jaw cracking.

All types of arthritis can lead to TMD. Most cases are due to osteoarthritis, but it can also be caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis also causes symptoms in other parts of your body, including:

Facial injuries can dislocate or break your jaw. A dislocation happens when your jawbone moves out of place, while a broken jaw happens when your jawbone breaks.

Common causes of facial injury include:

A dislocated or broken jaw can lead to TMD symptoms, including jaw pain and cracking.

Other symptoms of dislocation include:

If your jaw is broken, youll likely have:

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) causes pain in your muscles and fascia. Fascia is the sheet of connective tissue that covers every muscle.

MPS can affect any muscle, including those in your jaw, neck, and shoulder. Its the most common cause of TMJ discomfort.

You may have jaw cracking and popping, along with:

If your breathing briefly and repeatedly stops during sleep, its called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This happens when the airways in your throat are too narrow.

OSA increases your chances of developing TMD. The connection is unclear, but its thought that the resistance in your airways triggers a stress response. This may cause your jaw muscles to clench together.

Other symptoms include:

Malocclusion of the teeth occurs when your upper and lower jaws are misaligned. It causes your upper and lower teeth to line up incorrectly.

There are several types of malocclusions, including:

The primary symptom is teeth misalignment, but you can also experience TMD and jaw noises.

Other symptoms include:

Jaw cracking and pain might indicate an infection in your:

Depending on the infection, you may also have:

Jaw infections are often mistaken for TMD. If your doctors treatment for TMD fails to work, be sure to let them know.

If a tumor develops in the oral cavity, it can lead to oral cancer. This may cause symptoms like:

The tumor can also affect how your jawbone moves, causing jaw noises like cracking or popping.

If you have jaw cracking while eating, you might have:

Jaw cracking when you yawn might indicate:

Potential causes of jaw cracking plus ear pain include:

Jaw cracking usually isnt serious. It typically goes away in 2 or 3 weeks. However, you should see a doctor if you have:

If you were recently injured, go to the nearest emergency room. Youll need immediate medical attention.

To stop jaw cracking, youll need to treat the underlying cause.

The following home remedies can be used alone or with medical treatment:

If your jaw cracking is due to a more serious condition, you may need medical treatment. This might include:

Cracking your jaw isnt necessarily harmful. It can happen if you open your mouth wide, like during a big yawn. This is expected and normal.

However, take note if your jaw cracks when you talk or chew. It may indicate a more serious issue, especially if you also have pain.

Try eating softer foods to decrease your jaw activity. If your symptoms persist, see a doctor.

If you have jaw cracking, pay attention to your other symptoms. This can help you determine what might be causing the sound. Be sure to visit a doctor if you have persistent pain, difficulty eating or breathing, or if the jaw cracking gets worse.

Here is the original post:
Jaw Cracking Causes, Treatments, and When to See a Doctor - Healthline

Dexamethasone is a low-cost, anti-inflammatory drug that has been shown to reduce the risk of death in patients with COVID-19. Nati Harnik/AP hide caption

Dexamethasone is a low-cost, anti-inflammatory drug that has been shown to reduce the risk of death in patients with COVID-19.

Editor's note: Since we published this story, Trump's physician said that the president has completed his treatment for COVID-19.

President Trump told Fox Business Network on Thursday that he will be taking a steroid for COVID-19 for a "little bit longer." As his physicians told reporters last weekend, Trump started taking the drug on Saturday while he was still at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

The steroid, dexamethasone, is now part of the "standard of care" for COVID-19, said Dr. Celine Gounder, assistant professor of medicine and infectious diseases at New York University School of Medicine.

"It's an old drug, it's cheap," she said. "Of all the drugs we're using for COVID, it's the one that we have the most experience with."

Dexamethasone is an anti-inflammatory drug used for a range of ailments, including arthritis, kidney, blood and thyroid disorders and severe allergies. The drug is on the World Health Organization's list of essential medicines and is also used to treat certain types of cancer.

Earlier this year, a large clinical trial in the U.K. found that giving dexamethasone to patients hospitalized with COVID-19 reduced their risk of dying. Patients were given 6 milligrams of the drug for 10 days.

The study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine in July, found the drug cut mortality by a third among severely ill COVID-19 patients who were on ventilators, and by a fifth for patients receiving supplemental oxygen. It was found not to have any benefits for patients with mild illness, and there was some evidence of potential harm.

Later in the course of the disease, COVID-19 can cause the immune system to go into overdrive, damaging the lungs and other organs. That's what can happen to people who are severely ill. Dexamethasone helps these patients by tamping down the body's immune response.

The Infectious Diseases Society of America now recommends giving 6 milligrams of the drug for 10 days to critically ill COVID-19 patients on ventilators and those requiring oxygen support. But it recommends not using the drug on people with mild illness who do not require supplemental oxygen.

While this commonly used drug is generally safe, there are a range of known side effects. "By far, the most common is hyperglycemia, so that's where your blood sugars will shoot up," Gounder said.

Also quite common, especially among older patients are a range of psychiatric side effects, she added.

"Anything from feeling like you're on top of the world ... your arthritic aches and pains of age just melt away, you have lots of energy," she said. "There may be some grandiosity."

The drug can also cause agitation, insomnia and even, psychosis, Gounder said. "My own father was treated with high-dose steroids as part of his lymphoma regimen and developed acute psychosis requiring psychiatric hospitalization."

All these side effects point to the need to monitor people on these drugs carefully, she added.

If the president's doctors had prescribed him the recommended course of treatment, Trump would have finished the steroid therapy early next week. On Thursday evening, White House physician Dr. Sean Conley said Trump has completed his COVID-19 treatment.

Excerpt from:
Trump Was Treated With Steroids: How These Drugs Are Used For COVID-19 Patients - NPR

UPPER NYACK, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CreakyJoints Espaol, a digital patient community en Espaol for people with all forms of arthritis and part of the Global Healthy Living Foundation, today announced that the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation has funded the RA Hispanic Outreach Program, a $1 million, two-year grant to improve relationships between Hispanic people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and rheumatologists. The grant includes creation and dissemination of evidence-based education about RA, developed in patient-friendly formats and language. The project will include assembling an advisory council of Hispanic patients with RA and rheumatologists to collaboratively develop and evaluate educational materials to achieve culturally sensitive and patient friendly interventions that can become part of established care, if found effective.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted what we already knew to be true: Hispanics and other communities of color face structural and systemic inequities that contribute to poor access to health care. The Hispanic community faces further barriers related to a lack of understanding of the cultural traditions and attitudes that influence healthcare decision-making, said Daniel Hernandez, MD, Director of Medical Affairs and Hispanic Outreach. Through this program, well employ culturally sensitive approaches to achieve better health literacy about RA within the patient community and drive people to take a more proactive approach to managing a complex, chronic condition. We know that if we can improve communication between doctors and their patients, we can expect better health outcomes.

RA Hispanic Outreach Program Measures Engagement

Although the Hispanic population is the largest minority in the United States, composed of nearly 60 million Americans there are limited disease-specific resources for this community. According to Pew Hispanic Research, 71 percent of Hispanics obtain health information through their social networks, and 79 percent of them act on this information. Also, 41 percent reported making a medical decision regarding the treatment of an illness or medical condition due to some form of outreach.

The RA Hispanic Outreach Program to be created by CreakyJoints Espaol will develop and test patient-centered outcomes and create educational materials that are culturally appropriate and patient friendly. Materials will be developed, then disseminated digitally and in partnership with rheumatology pilot sites, Hispanic community organizations and key opinion leaders. Part of the goal is to use findings to train clinicians to deliver culturally competent care and patient education to develop stronger more-trusting relationships.

We are excited to support Global Healthy Living Foundation and their efforts to deliver accurate and culturally sensitive RA education through the RA Hispanic Outreach Program, said John Damonti, president, Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation. This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to health equity, which focuses on raising disease awareness and education, increasing health care access and improving outcomes for medically underserved populations. It will improve how Hispanic people living with RA communicate with their physicians and make decisions about their health care.

Using CreakyJoints Espaol digital channels, the organization will use online evaluation methods to develop and test patient-centered outcomes measures. The participatory nature of the study will allow the team to add patient outcome measures during the early phases of the study, thereby increasing the flexibility and comprehensiveness of the program. Online communication and participation via websites and social media with analytics will help ensure the measured outcomes are meaningful to a medically underserved community to improve health equity and outcomes.

Recognizing that social media is the most frequent source of medical information for people in the Hispanic community, the program will use novel and innovative methods to create mobile-first content designed for best use on mobile phones but also available on tablets, websites, television, podcasts, radio or print.

We created CreakyJoints Espaol to meet the needs of Hispanic communities looking for evidence-based advice about managing the different forms of arthritis. We are gratified to see engagement with our platforms grow as weve introduced programming related to Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient Guidelines, our Spanish-language COVID-19 resources, and our research, such as the our COVID-19 patient research registry, ProyectoCovid19.org and ArthritisPower, a bone, joint and skin condition patient registry, said Louis Tharp, executive director and co-founder of CreakyJoints and the Global Healthy Living Foundation. We thank the BMS Foundation for their generous award and look forward to implementing and reporting on how our interventions are positively impacting how patients in the Hispanic community are managing their RA.

About Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation

The Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation promotes health equity and seeks to improve the health outcomes of populations disproportionately affected by serious diseases by strengthening healthcare worker capacity, integrating medical care and community-based supportive services, and mobilizing communities in the fight against disease. The Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation engages partners to develop, test, sustain and spread innovative clinic-community partnerships to help patients access care and support for cancer in the U.S., China, Africa, and Brazil and for cardiovascular diseases, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis in the United States. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation, visit us at BMS.com/Foundation.

About CreakyJoints Espaol

CreakyJoints Espaol offers a repository of Spanish language arthritis educational information at http://creakyjoints.org.es and engages with the Spanish-speaking arthritis community via its social media channel: @creakyjoints_esp (Instagram). CreakyJoints Espaol is conducting longitudinal research about the evolving impact of COVID-19 on people living with arthritis in English and Spanish via the Autoimmune COVID-19 Project.

About CreakyJoints

CreakyJoints is a digital community for millions of arthritis patients and caregivers worldwide who seek education, support, advocacy, and patient-centered research. We represent patients through our popular social media channels, our websites http://www.CreakyJoints.org, https://creakyjoints.org.es/, http://www.creakyjoints.org.au, and the 50-State Network, which includes more than 1,500 trained volunteer patient, caregiver and healthcare activists.

As part of the Global Healthy Living Foundation, CreakyJoints also has a patient-reported outcomes registry called ArthritisPower (ArthritisPower.org) with more than 29,000 consented patients with joint, bone, GI and inflammatory skin conditions who track their disease while volunteering to participate in longitudinal and observational research. CreakyJoints also publishes the popular Raising the Voice of Patients series, which are downloadable patient-centered educational and navigational tools for managing chronic illness. It also hosts PainSpot (PainSpot.org), a digital risk assessment tool for musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. For more information and to become a member (for free), visit http://www.CreakyJoints.org.

Find us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creakyjoints andhttps://www.facebook.com/GlobalHealthyLivingFoundation/ Twitter: @GHLForg, @CreakyJoints, #CreakyChatsInstagram: @creaky_joints, @creakyjoints_aus, @creakyjoints_esp

Read the original post:
CreakyJoints Espaol Awarded $1Million Grant to Promote Health Equity and Improve Health Outcomes Among Hispanics Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis -...

A Laois mother of four is going to run a marathon virtually from her doorstep, for a charity that is helping her teenage daughter to cope with arthritis.

On Sunday October 25, the day of the cancelled Dublin City Marathon, Melissa Fenelon, 40, will set out from her home in Ballinakill and run to Ballyroan, then Abbeyleix, back to Ballinakill, on to Durrow and finally returning to Ballinakill, the full 42.2km.

She will still get a medal posted out from the marathon organisers on completing her epic 26.2 mile race, but it is not for glory that Melissa is running.

I want to raise awareness and raise money for Arthritis Ireland, that is my number one priority, she said.

Her eldest child Kaitlin was diagnosed last year with a condition called Psoriatic Arthritis, just before her 16th birthday.

An autoimmune disease, psA sometimes develops in people who have psoriasis in their family genes, which is surprisingly as high as one in 50 people.

The body is fighting against itself. She could be fine one day then theres a change in the weather, and her knees ache and get stiff and inflamed, with chronic fatigue.Its very unpredictable. Kaitlin injects herself every second Friday and takes medication. It can flare up anywhere, her fingers, ankles, knees," she said.

Kaitlin attends Heywood Community School and is now in 5th year. Covid-19 is an extra worry.

We cocooned ourselves this year for her and she didnt stir from home, so going back to school is a worry. But her school have been fantastic, and she has a great group of friends," said Melissa.

A lot of people associate arthritis with old people, they dont think that at 17 you might have a disease that makes you feel like a 70 year old at times. People are coming up to me telling me they cant believe it, she said.

Melissa has put sponsorship cards in Hamm's shop, Mcgraths, O'Shaughnessy's bar and Drury's bar in Ballinakill and opened a Facebook fundraiser which reached over 1,600 in less than a week.

Its been absolutely phenomenal, and thats only online, not including the cards. I hoped to get 500, I cant believe it. Everyones behind me, people are brilliant. And Kaitlin is delighted, proud as punch, she said.

Full interview in next Tuesday's Leinster Express.

See her fundraiser here.

Continue reading here:
Mother of teen with arthritis to run marathon in Laois for Arthritis Ireland - Leinster Express

The father-of-three and husband to former model Christine Martin has dealt with a crippling condition for the past three years. What is it?

At 47 years old, Paddy (real name Patrick) has been living with rheumatoid arthritis.

Sharing his diagnosis with the world on social media in 2018, Paddy posted a picture of him pointing towards the bandage on his shoulder.

In the snap, he wrote: "Morning! Nursing a poorly shoulder today. I had an ultrasound steroid injection in it yesterday. The reason, arthritis? I'm 44!"

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

This inflammatory form of arthritis can affect people of any age, testified the charity Arthritis Action.

It's caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking a person's joints, causing pain, stiffness and swelling.

If the condition is promptly treated, joint damage and disability can often be prevented.

The reason why this disease develops is not yet known, but it's been found to run in families.

READ MORE:Arthritis treatment: Apply this herbal cream to significantly reduce pain

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis

The condition tends to affect the small joints of the fingers and toes, the wrist, elbows, shoulders and knees, the neck and jaw.

At times, the pain, stiffness and swelling of joints can seemingly move around from joint to joint.

The mornings tend to be the most painful, and symptoms tend to improve during the day.

How to get a diagnosis

Rheumatoid arthritis can be diagnosed via a combination of symptoms, blood tests and X-rays of the joints.

DON'T MISS...The herbal extract men should take to boost sexual drive and control blood sugar levels[ADVICE]Hair loss treatment: An ancient oil shown to unplug hair follicles and boost hair growth[TIPS]How to live longer: The hot drink proven to lower cholesterol and boost longevity[TIPS]

Medications are available to dampen the immune response, including disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs).

Most people with this condition will be on lifelong medication; there are other treatment options too.

Physiotherapists are able to provide hands-on care and can advise you on exercises.

Podiatrists can help with insoles and foot care, while occupational therapists can offer advice on how to protect the joints.

Meanwhile, Paddy and his wife Christine have said they're "struggling" raising three autistic children.

Six-year-old twins Penelope and Leo and their three-year-old sister Felicity have the condition.

What's autism?

Autism Speaks noted the condition is "characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication".

The spectrum disorder becomes apparent in children from the age of two or three.

The charity emphasised that "professional evaluation is crucial", as many children with autism don't show all the signs.

Equally as important, many children who don't have autism may show a few of the signs.

What are the signs?

At any age, symptoms of autism can include restricted interests, difficulty understanding other people's feelings, and avoidance of eye contact.

Other signs could include resistance to minor changes in routine or surroundings.

Visit link:
Paddy McGuinness health: The TV presenter opens up on his crippling condition - Express