Tag

Rheumatoid Arthritis

All articles tagged with #rheumatoid arthritis

Methotrexate May Lower Blood Pressure, Shield Heart Health in RA Patients
health9 days ago

Methotrexate May Lower Blood Pressure, Shield Heart Health in RA Patients

A Flinders University–led study finds methotrexate, a long-used rheumatoid arthritis drug, lowers systolic blood pressure by about 7.4 mmHg in newly diagnosed RA patients compared with sulfasalazine, a reduction that could meaningfully reduce risk of heart attack and stroke. The blood-pressure drop did not track with improvements in joint symptoms or arterial stiffness, suggesting other pathways (such as reduced systemic inflammation) may be involved. Genetic factors may help predict who benefits most, paving the way for personalized therapy, though more research is needed.

How a 78-Year-Old Turned Back the Clock with Seven Simple Exercise Steps
health20 days ago

How a 78-Year-Old Turned Back the Clock with Seven Simple Exercise Steps

Linda Green, 78, started regular exercise at 75 after moving to Ledian Gardens and, in three years, achieved a biological age of 51, improved strength, balance, metabolism and cardiovascular function, and was able to come off steroids for her 20‑year rheumatoid arthritis. She credits seven steps: start small; make exercise part of a routine; mix different activities; tailor training to you; track progress (via the building’s E-Gym); maintain balance with nutrition; and use exercise to rebuild confidence and social belonging. Her story shows it’s never too late to start and that guided programs and community support can transform health.

Paving the Way to Prevent RA: Researchers Target a Hidden Preclinical Window
health1 month ago

Paving the Way to Prevent RA: Researchers Target a Hidden Preclinical Window

Rheumatoid arthritis has no cure, but researchers are identifying a preclinical window years before joint swelling to predict who will develop RA using autoantibodies (RF and anti-CCP) and clues from mucosal sites, and they’re testing preventive treatments in trials with immune drugs to delay or prevent the disease—though no approved prevention exists yet. Key challenges include accurately predicting progression and recruiting suitable participants.

Anti-Inflammatory Diets May Lower Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk, Large Analysis Finds
health1 month ago

Anti-Inflammatory Diets May Lower Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk, Large Analysis Finds

A meta-analysis of 12 studies involving more than 270,000 adults found that following a healthy overall diet pattern—especially anti-inflammatory patterns like the Mediterranean diet and the Healthy Eating Index—is associated with a lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. While not a guaranteed prevention or cure, consistent adherence to these eating patterns may reduce risk, potentially through reduced chronic inflammation and favorable effects on the microbiome. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Silent Onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis Detected Years Before Symptoms
health5 months ago

Silent Onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis Detected Years Before Symptoms

Scientists have discovered that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) begins years before symptoms appear, with changes in immune system profiles detectable in at-risk individuals. Elevated autoantibodies like ACPA and RF can predict RA development, but not all with these antibodies develop the disease. Recent research highlights immune system alterations, such as increased inflammatory proteins and activated B and T cells, in individuals before clinical symptoms emerge, offering potential for early detection and preventive therapies. These findings could lead to interventions that prevent or mitigate RA progression.

Study Links Menopause to Increased Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain
health1 year ago

Study Links Menopause to Increased Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain

A study published in Musculoskeletal Care suggests that menopause exacerbates rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, with four out of five women reporting worsened conditions during this period. The research, involving 779 women, also found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was largely ineffective in alleviating pain. Despite the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis, affecting over half a million people in the UK, nearly 93% of women had not discussed menopause with their doctors, highlighting a need for better training among arthritis specialists. The decline in oestrogen levels during menopause is believed to worsen symptoms.

Gut Microbiome's Role in Rheumatoid Arthritis Uncovered
health1 year ago

Gut Microbiome's Role in Rheumatoid Arthritis Uncovered

Research led by the University of Leeds has identified specific changes in the gut microbiome of individuals at risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), potentially uncovering mechanisms of disease onset. The study found significant differences in the abundance of Prevotellaceae in individuals who progressed to RA, with gut microbiome instability observed around ten months before clinical arthritis onset. These findings suggest that understanding microbiome dynamics could enhance RA prediction, prevention, and personalized treatment strategies.

Arthritis Alert: Two Foods to Avoid for Pain Relief
health1 year ago

Arthritis Alert: Two Foods to Avoid for Pain Relief

Arthritis sufferers in the UK are advised to avoid apples and tomatoes, as they may worsen symptoms due to solanine, a compound found in nightshade plants. While some studies suggest eliminating these foods can reduce inflammation and pain, other health organizations recommend monitoring individual reactions. Additionally, a diabetes medication, Canagliflozin, shows promise in treating autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis by affecting T-cells.

Gut Microbiome's Role in Rheumatoid Arthritis Uncovered
health1 year ago

Gut Microbiome's Role in Rheumatoid Arthritis Uncovered

A new study suggests that changes in the gut microbiome may be linked to the development of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease affecting millions globally. Researchers found that individuals at risk of developing the condition showed reduced microbial diversity and specific bacterial strains in their gut, which could serve as early indicators of the disease. These findings may lead to new preventative strategies and treatments targeting the gut microbiome, potentially through probiotics or dietary interventions, to alter disease progression.

"Nightmares and Sleep Patterns: Early Indicators of Autoimmune Diseases"
health1 year ago

"Nightmares and Sleep Patterns: Early Indicators of Autoimmune Diseases"

A recent study suggests that nightmares and "daymares" may serve as early warning signs of flare-ups in autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. The research, which focused on patient experiences, found that these neuropsychiatric symptoms often precede other disease symptoms, potentially allowing for earlier treatment. However, the variability of symptoms among patients and the subjective nature of neuropsychiatric symptoms pose challenges in establishing a standard list of indicators. The study highlights the importance of patient-clinician communication in detecting these early warning signs.