Handling Pain from Arthritis
Nestler
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints, the junctures where the ends of two bones meet. This common disability comes in more than 100 forms but for many sufferers, all they really want to know is how do I get arthritis pain relief.
Some detective work on the part of the sufferer may be called for. By determining when the symptoms pop up, it may be possible to manage some of the suffering. Pain in a joint may be felt during or after use, or after a period of inactivity. Discomfort may signal a change in the weather or be felt during it.
Although there's no cure for arthritis, available treatments can relieve pain and help you remain active. At the first signs of the illness, treatment should begin. Rest and easy exercise such as swimming may be effective starting points along with some over the counter medications to ease the pain and improve joint functioning.
Among the treatments your doctor may suggest are medication, self-care, physical therapy and occupational therapy. Occasionally surgery is recommended; some individuals seek relief from various forms of alternative medicine.
Medications include both topical and oral medications. Topical medications come in the form of sprays, gels, creams and ointments. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications may be sufficient to treat milder arthritis, but stronger prescription medications also are available.
OTC pain relievers such as acetaminophen can relieve pain but does not reduce inflammation. Taking more than the recommended dosage of acetaminophen can cause liver damage, especially if you consume three or more drinks of alcoholic a day.
Acetaminophen can also affect other medications you may be taking, so be sure to inform your doctor if you're taking it.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work in two ways. They relieve muscle pain and fight inflammation (such as from rheumatoid arthritis). NSAIDs have risks of side effects that increase when used at high dosages for long-term treatment.
Discuss with your doctor before using other medications such as COX-2 inhibitors, and others which have different side-effects. Antidepressants, apart from their antidepressant qualities, especially tricyclics, can help reduce chronic pain. Some people with arthritis also experience symptoms of depression. Antidepressant medications can treat the sleep disturbance that can accompany arthritis. Occasionally, your doctor may suggest injecting a joint space with a corticosteroid, which can offer some pain relief and reduce inflammation. In addition, how well you live with arthritis often depends on your behaviors and attitude. If you actively manage your arthritis, you may be able to gain control over your pain.
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