Guard against arthritis

Arthritis refers to any inflammation of the joints which causes pain and swelling. There are many different types of arthritis that can affect joints in any part of the body. Signs of arthritis can include recurring pain or tenderness in a joint, stiff joints after sitting or sleeping for a long time, limited joint movement, swelling in one or more joints and redness and warmth in a joint. If You Have Arthritis
The following tips may help:

• exercise such as swimming or walking - ask your doctor about the best exercise for you
• Rest your joints when your arthritis has flared up
• Keep within your ideal weight range as additional weight can further strain joints
For further information on ways that you can guard against arthritis, speak to your local Guardian Pharmacist.

Several types of arthritis

Arthritis will affect about one person in eight during their lifetime.Of the many types of arthritis, the commonest is osteoarthritis. Sometimes called degenerative arthritis this can be thought of as the 'wear and tear' form of the disease. It tends to affect people as they get older and particularly affects joints that have to take a lot of stresses and strains such as the weight bearing joints in the hips and knees. The lower back, neck and hands are also commonly affected. In osteoarthritis the cartilage surfaces are damaged and worn, sometimes to the point where the underlying bone surfaces are in direct contact with each other. In rheumatoid arthritis the main problem is inflammation of the synovial membrane and in gout (which many people don't realise is a form of arthritis), inflammation occurs in the synovial fluid due to tiny crystals of uric acid. Medication in one form or another is usually necessary for painful arthritis. Simple over-the-counter drugs such as paracetemol and asprin may be enough. Many people benefit from taking Glucosamine tablets on a long-term basis. Sometimes specific drugs, known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used. These can be very effective, but must be taken with care by those who are prone to indigestion and stomach ulcers.