Arthritis is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect the joints. Although there are some common symptoms of arthritis, such as joint and swelling. Specific types have more distinctive symptoms associated with them.
The severity of the condition can vary considerably from person to person.
The NHS explains: “Some people may have severe problems affecting many joints, whereas others may only notice mild symptoms in one or two joints.”
According to the health body, there may be times when your symptoms improve (known as remission) and periods when they get worse (known as flare-ups or relapses).
“Relapses can be very difficult to predict, but can often be managed with medicine when they do occur.”
General tips to treat arthritis
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for arthritis but steps can be taken to minimise its impact.
Research shows getting the right amount of that vitamin aids in preventing inflammatory arthritis and maintaining healthy joints.
“For starters, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans but low processed foods and saturated fat, is not only great for overall health, but can also help manage disease activity,” explains the Arthritis Foundation (AF).
The AF adds: “If this advice sounds familiar, it’s because these are the principles of the Mediterranean diet, which is frequently touted for its anti-aging and disease-fighting powers.”
The Mediterranean diet is high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, beans, cereals, grains, fish, and unsaturated fats such as olive oil.
As the AF explains, some types of fish are good sources of inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids.
One study found those who had the highest consumption of omega-3s had lower levels of two inflammatory proteins: C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6.
More recently, researchers have shown that taking fish oil supplements helps reduce joint swelling and pain, duration of morning stiffness and disease activity among people who have rheumatoid arthritis.
