Using Medication and Natural Solutions
Jointinflammationis the chief culprit behind arthritis joint damage,stiffness, swelling, andpain.
Reducing inflammation from arthritis can help to relieve symptoms.
Common NSAIDs include:
Certain illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis cause increased inflammation that requires stronger prescription therapies.
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Talk to a healthcare provider about which anti-inflammatory therapy is appropriate for you.
Acetaminophen, a popular over-the-counter pain reliever in Tylenol and many combination drugs, is not an anti-inflammatory drug.
Cortisol plays a large role in how the body naturally manages inflammation.
Corticosteroids are fast-acting and are sometimes prescribed for short-term relief until other drugs begin to take effect.
Dietary Supplements
In some cases, dietary supplements can help reduce arthritis inflammation naturally.
S-Adenosyl-Methionine
SAM-e, or S-adenosyl-methionine, is a compound that occurs naturally in the body.
It works withfolateandvitamin B12to support a number of body processes.
Vitamin Supplements
Our bodies need certain vitamins and minerals to stay healthy overall.
Vitamins D and K are linked to healthy cartilage and bone.
If you’re deficient in vitamins D or K, it may be helpful to supplement.
Other antioxidant vitaminsincluding vitamins A, C, and E, might also be beneficial.
In excess quantities, though, they can increase our body’s production of inflammatory chemicals.
What to Eat
Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, however, are good for you.
Foods that are high in these substances can help you lower inflammation.
Research shows that it has anti-inflammatory properties.
Cannabis can taken in capsules, in drops under the tongue, or smoked.
Ediblessuch as baked goods or oil-infused gummiesare another way to use cannabis.
Various forms of CBD supplements are also available that contain no THC.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight can drive up your inflammation.
Researchers recognize a connection between inflammation and obesity, although more needs to be learned.
At the very least, talk to a healthcare provider about working towards a goal of consistent exercise.
You don’t need to lose a lot of weight to improve inflammation.
Exercise
Exercise may be another good option.
Experts recommend 30 to 45 minutes of aerobic exercise, five days a week to reduce inflammation.
Many people with arthritis steer clear of regular exercise, as they feel exercise makes their arthritis worse.
However, though caution may be warranted, remember that doing something is better than doing nothing.
Start slowly, at whatever pace you consider doable, and then build on that.
Reduce Stress
Stress has been linked to higher levels of inflammation in the body.
A 2017 study found that acute stress raised levels of numerous inflammatory markers.
Therefore, practicing stress-relieving techniques may help to reduce inflammation.
Get Enough Sleep
Inadequate sleep has been associated with increased inflammatory markers.
The key is to determine how much sleep you require to feel well.
Then, be aware of how much sleep you are getting on a regular basis.
A healthy sleep pattern can help reduce inflammation.
A Word From Verywell
Inflammation plays a role in multiple diseases, including arthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the degree of severity.
Minor inflammation often responds well to cold compresses and OTC pain relievers.
More severe inflammation may require treatment with corticosteroids taken orally or injected into the joint.
The immune system plays a key role in inflammatory arthritis.
When the immune system isn’t working properly, it releases inflammatory chemicals that can attack joint tissues.
These include losing weight, eating anti-inflammatory foods, getting restorative sleep, and even taking certain nutritional supplements.
A flare-up of joint inflammation in arthritis can be due to:
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Arthritis Foundation.CBD for arthritis pain: What you should know.
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