When To See A Doctor
Even though it’s common, most cases of back pain tend to clear up without the need to see a doctor.
You should see your doctor if your pain:
- is really bad
- lasts for a long time
- stops you from working or doing the things you enjoy
- affects your everyday activities
- gets worse.
You should also see your doctor if you have any changes in sexual function, for example, being unable to get an erection.
If the pain is causing you significant problems and stops you from getting on with normal life and work activities, your doctor will examine you and ask you questions.
These questions will help predict how likely it is that you need further help with your back pain. If you do need further support, your doctor will make a referral to physiotherapy so that you can have treatment early, to help with the pain and return to normal activities.
Its natural to want to know what has caused your back pain. However, specialists may not be able to tell you for certain what has caused your back pain, even after carefully assessing you.
If youre concerned about the cause of your back pain, it can help to talk openly about any worries with a healthcare professional, as reducing any fear may help speed up your recovery.
Can Diet Help Treat Arthritis
Research suggests that following an anti-inflammatory diet can reduce osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. A healthy diet can also lead to weight loss, which reduces stress and strain on joints. Gout, a form of metabolic arthritis, can be relieved by avoiding purines that can trigger gout flares.
While Theres No Cure For Osteoarthritis Its Symptoms Can Be Managed
Newswise WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. Oct. 10, 2019 Osteoarthritis cant be ignored.
On a grand scale, it is the most common form of arthritis , accounting for more cases than all the other forms combined. It affects an estimated 31 million Americans and is a leading cause of disability among adults.
On the individual level, it can produce pain and other symptoms in joints sufficient to limit and even prohibit the performance of everyday tasks. A chronic condition, it becomes more common with age, especially after 65, and once it starts it typically gets worse.
And theres no known cure.
But the picture isnt totally bleak: There are treatments that can relieve pain and maintain joint function.
Osteoarthritis is the thinning or wearing down of cartilage, which is the cushion between the separate bones in a joint, explained Wake Forest Baptist Health rheumatologist Francis C. Luk, M.D. When your doctor says you have arthritis, most often they are referring to osteoarthritis.
When cartilage wears down, the bones in the joint can rub against each other, causing pain during or after movement. Other symptoms include stiffness after periods of inactivity, tenderness, loss of flexibility, mild swelling and a clicking or cracking sound when the joint is bent. Osteoarthritis also can cause damage to the synovium and the bones themselves.
Does the presence of symptoms like these mean its time to see a doctor?
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Will I Need Surgery For Arthritis
Healthcare providers usually only recommend surgery for certain severe cases of arthritis. These are cases that havent improved with conservative treatments. Surgical options include:
- Fusion: Two or more bones are permanently fused together. Fusion immobilizes a joint and reduces pain caused by movement.
- Joint replacement: A damaged, arthritic joint gets replaced with an artificial joint. Joint replacement preserves joint function and movement. Examples include ankle replacement, hip replacement, knee replacement and shoulder replacement.
Can Schizophrenia Be Cured
There is no cure for schizophrenia as yet however, treatment can significantly reduce the symptoms. Schizophrenia can be treated with a combination of medication and therapy, says Deepak D’Souza, MD, a psychiatry professor at Yale School of Medicine.
Schizophrenia can be managed just like other chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and arthritis, says Dr. DSouza.
Since the causes of schizophrenia arent fully understood, treatment is currently focused on reducing the symptoms and improving day-to-day functioning. Research is underway to develop safer and more effective treatment modalities that can also address the causes of the condition.
Treatment for schizophrenia lasts years and may even be lifelong, says Dr. DSouza. He says recovery in schizophrenia can vary. For instance, he explains that some people may achieve a high degree of recovery and their symptoms may go away completely, allowing them to lead productive and fulfilling lives whereas others may be functionally impaired or have residual symptoms.
Diagnosing the condition and treating it early can help improve treatment outcomes. If left untreated, schizophrenia can persist and become disabling.
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Complementary Medicine For Osteoarthritis
Taking supplements
In many cases, theres little research evidence to show that supplements and herbal remedies can improve arthritis or its symptoms, but many people feel they do benefit from them.
Below are a few of the supplements often used by people with osteoarthritis.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is found naturally in the body in structures such as ligaments, tendons and cartilage. Supplements are usually produced from crab, lobster or prawn shells, although shellfish-free types are available. Theres some research to suggest it may have some benefit in painful osteoarthritis, especially of the knee.
Most trials have used a dose of 500 mg three times a day, and the evidence seems to suggest glucosamine sulphate may be more effective than glucosamine hydrochloride. It doesnt help the pain straight away so youll need to take it for a couple of months. If it hasnt helped after two months, then its unlikely that it will.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin exists naturally in our bodies and its thought that it helps give cartilage elasticity. The research evidence is limited to animal studies that suggest it might help to slow the breakdown of cartilage.
Dont expect to see any improvement for at least two months. And if your cartilage is badly damaged, its unlikely that youll benefit from chondroitin.
Fish oils
Complementary treatments
There are a number of different treatments available and they can generally be used alongside prescribed or over-the-counter medicines.
How Your Back Works
The spine, which is also called the backbone or spinal column, is one of the strongest parts of the body and gives us a great deal of flexibility and strength.
Its made up of 24 bones, known as vertebrae, one sitting on top of the other. These bones have discs in between and lots of strong ligaments and muscles around them for support. There are also the bones in the tailbone at the bottom of the back, which are fused together and have no discs in between.
On either side of the spine, running from top to bottom, are many small joints called the facet joints.
The spinal cord passes inside the vertebrae, which protect it.
The spinal cord connects to the brain through the base of the skull and to the rest of the body by nerves that pass through spaces between the bones of the spine. These nerves are also known as nerve roots.
As you grow older, the structures of your spine, such as the joints, discs and ligaments, age as well. The structures remain strong but its usual for your back to get stiffer as you get older.
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How Is Lyme Disease Diagnosed
In areas where the ticks that carry Lyme disease are found, when a patient comes to a doctor with probable erythema migrans , blood tests are performed to diagnose the condition, including:
- Step 1: Enzyme immunoassay or immunofluorescence assay – Total Lyme titer or IgG and IgM titers
- Step 2: Western blot testing only performed if step 1 test results are positive
Other tests that may be indicated include:
- Joint aspiration to see if there is another cause for fluid buildup on the joints
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis – in patients with meningitis
- Electrocardiogram – to identify Lyme carditis or arrythmias
Measures To Prevent Hepatitis B
Chronic hepatitis B has a very low cure rate. Meanwhile, the HBV virus has the ability to spread very quickly, so prevention is extremely necessary. The most effective preventive measures include:
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis B
- Faithful and safe sex activities
- Do not share personal items such as razors, needles, nail clippers, hair clippers,
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Nutritional Supplements And Dietary Changes
There’s no strong evidence to suggest that specific dietary changes can improve rheumatoid arthritis, although some people with rheumatoid arthritis feel their symptoms get worse after they have eaten certain foods.
If you think this may be the case for you, it may be useful to try avoiding problematic foods for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve.
But it’s important to ensure your overall diet is still healthy and balanced. A Mediterranean-style diet, which is based on vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, beans, cereals, grains, fish and unsaturated fats such as olive oil, is recommended.
There’s also little evidence supporting the use of supplements in rheumatoid arthritis, although some can be useful in preventing side effects of medicines you may be taking.
For example, calcium and vitamin D supplements may help prevent osteoporosis if you’re taking steroids, and folic acid supplements may help prevent some of the side effects of methotrexate.
There’s some evidence to suggest that taking fish oil supplements may help reduce joint pain and stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
Further information
- National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society : diet and rheumatoid arthritis
Page last reviewed: 28 August 2019 Next review due: 28 August 2022
What Is The Definition Of Arthritis
Arthritis is more of an inflammation of the joints and that affects one or multiple joints. There are several different types of arthritis and causes and treatment methods according to the type. The two most common types of Arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis . The symptoms of Arthritis are not constant and it develops over time. It is not possible for anyone to say if Arthritis will occur at this point in time.
Arthritis is experienced mostly by adults who are over the age 65, however, there are also possibilities that the young adults, children, and teens might experience the same as well. As compared to men, women experience arthritis quickly. Nowadays, considering the work pressure and difference in activities, women who are younger are also experiencing arthritis. Regardless of the fact that there under types of Arthritis present, the symptoms are most likely to be stiffness, swelling, warmth, pain, and redness in the joints.
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Alternative Medicine For Arthritis
A variety of alternative therapies is used for arthritis. However, none of these has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of arthritis, so they may not be effective or safe. It is important to let your doctor know if you’re considering these types of treatments.
While some studies suggest that glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are as effective as NSAIDs for reducing pain, swelling, and stiffness in osteoarthritis, recent large studies funded by the NIH suggest these supplements are not very helpful, except perhaps in some cases. Typical daily doses are 1,500 milligrams for glucosamine and 1,200 milligrams for chondroitin.
The antibiotic doxycycline may have some potential to delay the progression of osteoarthritis by inhibiting enzymes that break down cartilage. More research is needed to confirm these results.
The NIH considers acupuncture an acceptable alternative treatment for osteoarthritis, especially if it affects the knee. Studies have shown that acupuncture helps reduce pain, may significantly lessen the need for painkillers, and can help increase range of motion in affected knee joints.
The supplement SAMe has been shown in some studies to be as effective for osteoarthritis pain as NSAIDs.
Can Ra Be Prevented Before Synovitis Becomes Clinically Evident
One of the major impediments to the development of definitive treatment for RA is the inability to detect, and in turn study, the earliest events that predictably lead to the development of persistent, destructive synovitis. There are virtually no data, epidemiologic or otherwise, regarding the premorbid status of individuals destined to develop RA. It can reasonably be asked: can anyone develop RA given the right circumstances? The available data indicate that a typical high-risk individual would be a perimenopausal woman with a family history of RA or a related autoimmune disease, who is a smoker, who is positive for rheumatoid factor, and who carries at least one HLA-DR4 allele. The risk of such an individual developing clinically detectable disease, say, within 5 years, has not been established. A conservative estimate would be at least 5% and the actual risk could be substantially higher. Assembling and longitudinally studying a cohort of such individuals would afford the best opportunity to understand how RA starts and, ultimately, how it can be prevented.
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Home Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis
The treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis also include some home remedies. Certain home remedies can prove to be beneficial in providing relief from the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Green tea. The polyphenols present in green tea are well-known for the joint protecting and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidants present in it suppress the immune system and also gives relief from the pain and swelling associated with the disease.
Garlic. Garlic plays a good role in limiting the progression of the rheumatic disease and reducing the symptoms. It is an anti-inflammatory agent, which suppresses the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The best result is seen when eaten raw.
Cinnamon. The anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon help in alleviating the symptoms associated with RA. It provides relief from the aches and pain, which increase in the winter season. However, this should be carefully used by pregnant women and by people who have gastric problems.
Willow bark. It is the bark of willow trees, which with its anti-inflammatory effects assist the pain relief in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. It has shown its positive effects in fever, muscle aches, and the stiffness of joints. Knowledge of correct dosage is needed, as the large doses can prove to be fatal.
Black pepper. Capsaicin is an ingredient present in black pepper, which gives relief to rheumatic patients. It helps relieve the pain and swelling associated with this disease.
Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a lifelong disease. When its treated, it may go away for a little while, but it usually comes back. Its important to see your doctor as soon as symptoms begin. The earlier you start treatment, the better your outcome. Some of the damage from RA is irreversible, so finding the disease and treating it early is very important.
If left untreated, RA can cause other health problems. Your hands may become bent or twisted. Other joints can become deformed. Inflammation will affect your cartilage and bones. Lung and heart problems also can occur. Talk to your doctor if you notice any new symptoms or problems.
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Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Be Cured Completely
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. The disease leads to wearing away of the joint tissue lining which leads to significant pain and joint deformity. It affects many people all around the world. People commonly ask if rheumatoid arthritis can be cured completely and also about the treatment options for it. This article aims at understanding these aspects of it and explore the possible treatment options.
Do Certain Types Of Weather Make Arthritis Worse
Some people find that arthritis feels worse during certain types of weather. Humidity and cold are two common triggers of joint pain.
There are a variety of reasons why this might happen. People tend to be less active in rainy seasons and the wintertime. The cold and damp can also stiffen joints and aggravate arthritis. Other theories suggest that barometric pressure, or the pressure of the air around us, may have some effect on arthritis.
If you find that certain types of weather make your arthritis worse, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to manage your symptoms. Dressing warmly, exercising inside or using heat therapy may help relieve your pain.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Arthritis is a disease that affects the joints. There are many types of arthritis, all of which can cause pain and reduce mobility. Some forms of arthritis result from natural wear and tear. Other types come from autoimmune diseases or inflammatory conditions. There are a variety of treatments for arthritis, ranging from physical or occupational therapy to joint surgery. Your healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and recommend the right treatment plan for your needs. Most people can successfully manage arthritis and still do the activities they care about.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/15/2021.
References
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Is Hepatitis B Curable
The chance of a cure for hepatitis B depends on the acute or chronic form. Specifically:
- Acute hepatitis B: No specific treatment is required because up to 95% of patients recover after a spontaneous period of time. Most patients just need to rest properly and take supportive treatment measures according to the doctors advice
- Chronic hepatitis B: Includes the group of patients with inactive hepatitis B virus and the group of patients with active hepatitis B virus. Patients with the virus in an inactive form need periodic monitoring, no specific treatment is required. For patients with active virus, the doctor will base on the specific situation to choose the appropriate treatment drug in oral or injectable form. However, the goal of treatment is only to prevent the HBV virus from growing and causing liver damage, cirrhosis and liver cancer. Duration of treatment depends on the individual patient, can last from a few years to a lifetime. The chance of a complete cure is very low.