Gut Bacteria May Predict And Prevent Rheumatism

The intestinal bacterial flora of our gut is known to affect our gastrointestinal system, but according to a new study, it can help predict the risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), thereby helping us to prevent the symptoms.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory rheumatic condition characterised by the symptoms of joint pain and swelling with stiffness. RA is an autoimmune disorder that affects nearly millions of people, elders being the common victims.

A renowned immunologist found that intestinal bacteria are a common cause of rheumatoid arthritis. The studies suggest that investigating a specific intestinal gut bacterium – microbiota – can help doctors predict the onset of rheumatoid arthritis, thereby helping in preventing the condition. There are nearly 1,000 different species of microbiota.

The study revealed that certain bacterial lineages lead to gut microbial imbalance, which are found in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers were able to identify gut microbes that were rare and low in healthy individuals, but high in RA patients.

The finding of this study can help in drawing out a probable diagnosis in susceptible people. Evaluation of intestinal microbiota can help predict the occurrence of rheumatoid arthritis. This can further help in early treatment and prevention.

People with chronic rheumatoid arthritis need proper medical attention. Pain relief medicines are often prescribed to reduce inflammation, pain, stiffness and swelling. Physicians also prescribe topical creams or gels that contain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They help reduce joint pain and stiffness. At the same time, patients are advised to follow healthy diet and perform mild physical activity. Physiotherapy helps immensely in preventing pain and stiffness; it is advisable to consult a qualified physical therapist.

Other renowned medical experts suggest more number of studies to find the exact link between gut bacteria and rheumatoid arthritis. To know more about rheumatoid arthritis medicines, visit pain relief section of pharmacyoutlet.co.uk.

Nearly Half Of The UK Adults Suffer From Chronic Pain

According to the daily mail reports, nearly millions of adults are living with long-standing pain in the UK. Stats suggest that approximately 28 million adults are affected by some degree of chronic pain, the pain that persists for more than three months.

Medical experts analysed the data of 19 studies that comprised 140,000 adults. They evaluated the results and found that roughly 43% of adults in the UK are suffering from chronic pain. Elders aged 75 and above experienced more pain than young adults.

It is quite common that the incidence or prevalence of chronic pain will elevate as the age progresses. Eventually, this will surge the need for pain relief treatment in general. Healthcare services across the globe should do more to help people with chronic pain. Although not life-threating, persistent pain can make life miserable and adversely affect one’s mental health.

Medical professionals advise a combination of pain relief medicines and physical exercise to help reduce discomfort. People with psychological issues (caused by chronic pain) need cognitive behavioural therapy, as it helps them cope better when it comes to improve their quality of life.

What researchers found?

Researchers, after considering different medical conditions, analysed the data of people suffering from chronic pain, fibromyalgia, nerve pain and arthritic pain in the general UK people. The result was astonishing – 43.5% of adult population experienced pain continuously. Experts opine that the prevalence rate is going to increase in near future. Ageing is one of the causes of chronic pain and discomfort.

Conclusion

The systematic review suggested that 43.5% people in the UK are living painful life. Chronic pain can have a negative impact on one’s quality of life. It can affect flexibility or mobility and limit daily physical activity. In addition, it affects employment, personal and social life, and even mental health.

As the age progresses, the prevalence of pain increases and the need of pain management grows. Fortunately, there are number options available for people suffering from chronic pain, such as painkillers, physiotherapy and counselling. Remember, it is always recommended to consult medical practitioner before using any OTC or prescription painkiller.