Achy Joint and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Achy joints and menopause is not directly related but often women experienced it as they enter into middle age. Usually when achy joints are associated with menopause, it is not localized to a particular joint but happens to the overall body. The condition must be assessed properly as it may be caused from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis that have dire consequences if not identified early.

Rheumatoid arthritis, one of the most common types of rheumatic diseases affects women more than men and the risk of having it is usually higher during middle age. It happens when the body own immune system attacks organs, tissues and joints instead of fighting infections. Its feature is that it attacks both side of the body at the same time and may also affect internal organs such as the heart, nerves, eyes, lungs and kidneys. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause achy joints as the linings are inflamed and it severe cases will bring about loss of function.

As estrogen production drops, CD16, a molecule that regulates inflammation increased and this relationship may shed some light on how estrogen influences rheumatoid arthritis. The relationship of estrogen and rheumatoid arthritis is not exclusive and other factors may also play a role and as such, estrogen replacement therapy did not seem to fully protect women from it.

Apart from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis is another common type of these rheumatic diseases. It is also known as degenerative joint disease and it is the effect of the cartilage between the joints wears out due to aging. Osteoarthritis can also cause achy joints that limit movement and in serious cases, a person may be disabled.

The first thing to do is obviously to visit your doctor. Ensure that you get a full physical examination including your eyes, heart and other areas to properly diagnose the cause. Some type of not so serious achy joints can be cured but others like rheumatoid arthritis may be persistent in your life. However, it can be controlled with medication, enough rest, nutritional diet, proper exercises and taking extra caution in protecting your joints.

You should also take proactive steps in managing the achy joints and more importantly if you are diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Since the body exerts a pressure to the joints, you can consider reducing some weight. Seek advice to develop an exercise routine that is suitable for your situation. If your joints ache during exercise, stop and reassess that type of exercise suitability.

For rheumatoid arthritis sufferers, they are encouraged to continue living an active lifestyle as physical activity does not increase the diseases progression. Therapies such as hydrotherapy and physiotherapy are recommended as it teaches ways to protect the joints while continuing daily activities at the same time.

Whether rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or other type of achy joints, good diet is beneficial. Food with high omega-3 fatty acids such as fish is good as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Fresh raw fruit and vegetable juices especially pineapple and celery also have excellent anti-inflammatory effects.