World Arthritis Day is celebrated on October 12 around the globe, and the theme for this year is - It's in your hands, take action. This theme is aimed at raising awareness about rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs), which are a leading cause of disability. The theme also aims at showing support to those who are fighting hard to combat this ailment.
Arthritis is a disease which affects the joints adversely by causing stiffness and inflammation. There are around 160 different forms of arthritis, and each of them has different treatment strategies and outcomes.
Over 180 million people in India are affected by arthritis which is equal to 15 per cent of the total population, states arthritis-india.com.
Symptoms pointing towards arthritis:
- Factors like lifestyle and aging make one prone to ailments like arthritis. It's symptoms are:
- Swelling in the limbs
- Joint pains
- Stiffness
- Limited movements by limbs
Factors that cause arthritis
There can be various elements which can cause arthritis, at times many of these elements trigger the disease by working together. Some factors responsible for causing arthritis are:
- Inheritance
- Dysfunctional immune system
- Infections
- Injuries
- Abnormal metabolism
Tips to control arthritis:
This painful illness is chronic and cannot be curbed fully despite the availability of medicines. Some fine tips to keep this disease under control are:
- Adapting healthy eating habits
- Working out
- Yoga
- Weight management
- Staying active
- Protecting joints from unwanted stress
- Consulting doctor for regular check ups
- Quit smoking
You need to be extremely careful with your diet if you are suffering from arthritis or are taking care of an arthritis patient. Eating various foods can actually worsen the condition of arthritis, whereas as going high on some food products can help in managing this condition better.
Diet to follow for managing arthritis:
These foods and beverages should be avoided or taken in limited quantities-
Coffee/Tea consumption should be minimized or stopped
Avoid eating bananas
Say no to processed and fried foods
Minus rice from your diet
Bound dairy product consumption
Limit salt intake
Consume less sugar
Shun alcohol
Stay away from foods rich in omega3 fatty acids
These foods and drinks should be consumed in more amount-
Switch to soy products instead of milk products
Have avocados
Go high on fresh fruits and salads
Consume more of boiled and baked food
Consume ample of water
