Medicine is an important component of the
treatment of Osteoarthritis. A healthy alternative is to
combine over the counter pain relievers with alternate
treatment and medicines prescribed by physician.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of
arthritis, affecting nearly 20 million Americans. Each
affected person has his individual medical and personal
history. Medication has to be taken in conjunction with diet,
alcohol intake, dosage, and time. For example, if prescribed
Acetaminophen, an analgesic, one needs to be careful about
fasting and alcohol intake as it could lead to
acetaminophen-induced liver damage.
Nonsteroidal and anti-inflammatory drugs
such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium are prescribed if
acetaminophen proves inadequate as pain reliever. A
disadvantage with NSAIDs is that they can cause irritation,
bleeding in stomach or a decrease in kidney function. It is
advisable to follow a doctor’s instructions look out for
side effects. The newer and more effective NSAIDs or COX-2
inhibitors, do not cause gastrointestinal irritation but
increase risk of cardiovascular problems.
Medication has to follow the course of the
disease. The doctor can prescribe Corticosteroids injections
for relief and movement caused by increasing inflammation and
stiffness in joints. This is a steroid made by the adrenal
gland, and if given frequently, quickens joint breakdowns and
their eventual failure. A similar injection providing equal
relief by cushioning the joints is Hyaluronan or Synervisc.
Though effective, they trigger swelling and occasional
infection or allergic reactions.
Alternate medication, home remedies,
liniments, gels, and creams used to help lessen pain require
patience and belief. The treatment can take few weeks or
months before improvement is noticed. The creams and lotions
contain aspirin-like compounds, capsaicin, menthol, and local
anesthetics and have similar impact as NSAIDs. The best advice
for an Osteoarthritis patient is to follow doctor's
recommendations whether going in for prescribed medicines,
alternative medicines, or for surgery procedures.
Osteoarthritis
provides detailed information about osteoarthritis,
knee osteoarthritis and more. Osteoarthritis is
affiliated with Gout
Diet.
