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6 Essential Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis Remission

There’s no cure for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic, inflammatory type of arthritis. But it is possible to achieve remission, a period when your condition is well controlled. 

With remission, you may feel as if your RA has gone away, at least for a while. “That is actually our goal: to be in remission,” says Orrin Troum, MD, a rheumatologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California. 

Achieving this goal can be more challenging for some people who have RA than others. In studies, the incidence of people whose RA was in remission ranged from 5 to 45 percent at any one time. 

Here are some facts about RA remission to keep in mind:1. Remission doesn’t mean your symptoms disappear completely.

When your RA symptoms seem to be in check and you feel good, it may seem like an obvious sign of remission. But from a medical standpoint, remission is a little more complex. 

In the 1980s, remission was defined as the elimination of all RA disease activity. But in practice, this definition wasn’t a realistic goal.

Today, remission is defined as a limited or small amount of disease, according to the Arthritis Foundation. 

Doctors use a number of criteria to determine if RA is in remission. These can include:No more than one tender jointNo more than one swollen jointA blood test showing little or no inflammationYour perception of your disease activity 

“Some remission definitions have to do with the person’s subjective feelings,” adds Dr. Troum. 

For example, your rheumatologist may ask you to describe your RA on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most bothersome. If you say 2 or higher, you haven’t achieved remission — regardless of other remission-defining criteria. 

“Even though a person may not have any tender or swollen joints and their tests for inflammation are normal, if they say they’re a 3 on the scale, they’re not in remission,” explains Troum.2. The length of remission can vary dramatically.

Although the goal is to maintain remission for as long as possible, the length of it varies by person, according to Troum. An article published in Therapeutic Advances in Musculoskeletal Disease states the duration of remission in RA can range from just a few weeks to over 12 months. 3. The sooner you start treatment, the greater your odds of achieving remission.

Rheumatologists unanimously agree that the best way to achieve remission is with early — as soon as you’re diagnosed with RA — aggressive treatment, using medications called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). 

“You typically need to have symptoms for at least six weeks to make the diagnosis, but the earlier you get diagnosed, the less damage will be done,” Troum says. “As soon as you can control the inflammation, you can prevent the changes in the joints from progressing.” 4. Simple measures can help you maintain remission.

The most important step in maintaining remission is to stick to your treatment plan and take your medication exactly as prescribed. 

In addition to early diagnosis and treatment with DMARDs, frequent assessments of disease activity (typically every 3 months) with adjustments in medication as needed can help most people with RA achieve remission or low disease activity, according to a study published in June 2021 in Open Access Rheumatology.

That said, your lifestyle also plays a role. Some ways to maintain remission:Don’t smoke. In a study published in April 2021 in the journal Medicine (Baltimore), 47 percent of people living with RA who took a DMARD called methotrexate — and who were also current smokers — had an inadequate response to the drug, meaning they still had high disease activity.Stay active. Exercise is beneficial for everyone, but especially when you have RA. Low-impact activities like walking, biking, swimming, and yoga can all be good options that won’t stress your joints. “Whatever exercise you can and will do, can help you,” says Troum.Eat healthy. An anti-inflammatory eating plan, such as a Mediterranean diet, can help reduce inflammation in your body that otherwise contributes to RA, according to the Arthritis Foundation. This means focusing on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats such as fish and olive oil.Keep other health conditions in check. In addition to taking care of your joints, it’s important to take care of the rest of your body. If you have another health condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, make sure you’re getting the right treatment. “Keeping all your organs as healthy as possible will also help you,” Troum says.

Certain supplements may also help reduce inflammation, such as high-dose omega-3 fatty acids or turmeric, according to Troum. If you’re interested in taking supplements for your RA, talk to your rheumatologist first.5. You may be able to cut back on your medication when you reach remission. 

You may be able to start taking a lower dose of your medication once you’ve been in remission for at least 6 months, under your doctor’s guidance. That said, you probably won’t be able to go off all medications — particularly DMARDs, says Troum. 

“Sometimes, people are on two or three meds for their arthritis, and yes, they can taper down some,” he says. But the DMARD you take, whether it’s a traditional DMARD, a biologic, or a janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, is what’s keeping you in remission. “You usually need to stay on that or switch to [another DMARD] that will keep you in remission,” Troum notes.

Work with your doctor to determine if you’re able to taper your RA medication during remission.6. Relapses are inevitable.

Eventually, nearly everyone who has RA will experience a relapse. This can occur if you stop taking your DMARD medication, but it also can happen if you’re doing everything exactly as you should, because your body can become resistant to a particular medication you’re on.

Your doctor will want to confirm you’re taking your medication consistently and correctly. If you are, but still relapsed, you may need to switch to a different DMARD to regain control of your symptoms. “Different biologics have different mechanisms of action, as do JAK inhibitors,” Troum says. 

If you have a flare-up, notify your rheumatologist right away so you can take steps to adjust your treatment plan and, ideally, regain remission.

2 Go Ability Access Transit Wheelchair

2 Go Ability Access Transit Wheelchair

The 2Go Ability Access Transit Wheelchair is an affordable aluminium transit wheelchair with a really helpful range of high quality features.

Its ultra compact frame and lightweight foldable design makes it the perfect travel chair. The Access is fitted with padded armrests, comfortable upholstery and detachable footrests for your comfort.

These chairs are refurbished to like new condition.

To see more information click here

Excel G Logic as seen in Thiis Magazine

Excel G-Logic

Specifically selected by Motability Operations to represent the manual wheelchair sector on the recognised Motability scheme. The Excel G-Logic is a modern, unique and durable lightweight aluminium wheelchair. Available in 16”, 18” or 20” seat widths and either Transit or Self-propel, the Excel G-Logic is an inclusive and modern new take on the old G-Lite Pro. With four frame colours to choose from, including Trail Blackand four upholstery colours, the Excel G-Logic offers end-users more the freedom to customise their chair with a possibility of up to 16 variations. Cleverly designed cushions featuring Velcro strips enable the user to add or remove cushions with ease, allowing more opportunity to customise, whilst standard features include half-folding backrest, puncture proof tyres, height adjustable armrests, swing-away and quick release legrests with attendant brakes for both Transit and Self-propel models. The G-Logic is also now crash tested to the latest standard of ISO 7176 EN 12183, something which the company says is unique for a chair in this class.

To see more information on this product please click here

Excel G Explorer as seen in Thiis Magazine

Excel G-Explorer

Enabling end-users to explore all things outdoor, the Excel G-Explorer features quick release pneumatic 24 inch mountain bike tyres designed for all terrain, wide puncture proof all black front castor wheels, swing-away quick release legrests, half folding backrest, height adjustable push handles and armrests as well as a helpful quick release fold in one mechanism, all as standard. Designed to be ready for any adventure, the chair is available in two finishes, Silver or scratch resistant Trail Black, with it described as the definition of robust style.

To see more information on this chair visit our website here

Excel G-Logic Lightweight Transit Wheelchair

Excel G-logic Wheelchair. The Excel G-Logic Wheelchair is the next generation of G-Range Lightweight Wheelchair from Van os..

The Excel G-Logic Transit Wheelchair has a lightweight frame and comes with 12″ transit rear wheels.

It has a half folding backrest and swing away removable footrests which all contribute to is very small transport size and weight. Making it an ideal choice of Lightweight Wheelchair for every day or occasional use.

The Excel G-Logic Transit Wheelchair has height adjustable armrests, which are not only great in helping to make the user as comfortable as possible but due to the way they fold, it makes the chair perfect for whilst at a desk or table. G-Logic Wheelchair

The Excel G-Logic Transit Wheelchair comes with the following features :

  • Quick release 12″ rear wheels
  • Front Wheels 180mm x 32mm Solid.
  • Excel G-Logic Wheelchairs have a Lightweight aluminium frame with a ten-year frame warranty.
  • Solid Puncture Proof Tyres
  • Half folding backrest with a handy pocket on back of backrest padding. Height Of Wheelchair when folded is 74cm
  • Swing away, removable footrests.
  • Easy to fold away and transport
  • Latest model has attendant brakes on the handles to give additional control when pushing the chair
  • Choice of 4 colours for the Upholstery with an attractive Silver, Black and White Frame.

Call us today on 0330 383 9988 to get free delivery on this item or order via our website

Excel G-Logic Lightweight Self Propelled Wheelchair

Excel G-logic Wheelchair. The Excel G-Logic Wheelchair is the next generation of G-Range Lightweight Wheelchair from Van os..

The Excel G-Logic Self Propelled Wheelchair has a lightweight frame and comes with 24″ self propel rear wheels.

The Excel G-Logic wheelchairs Rear wheels are fitted with Quick release pins, which means they can be removed in seconds making the Chair extremely easy to transport.

It has a half folding backrest and swing away removable footrests which all contribute to is very small transport size and weight. Making it an ideal choice of Lightweight Wheelchair for every day or occasional use.

Plus Latest model now has Brakes on the Handles making it easier for any attendant pushing the chair.

The Excel G-Logic Self Propelled Wheelchair has height adjustable armrests, which are not only great in helping to make the user as comfortable as possible but due to the way they fold, it makes the chair perfect for whilst at a desk or table. G-Logic Wheelchair

The Excel G-Logic Self Propelled Wheelchair comes with the following features :

  • Quick release 24″ rear wheels
  • Front Wheels 180mm x 32mm Solid.
  • Excel G-Logic Wheelchairs have a Lightweight aluminium frame with a ten-year frame warranty.
  • Solid Puncture Proof Tyres
  • Half folding backrest with a handy pocket on back of backrest padding. Height Of Wheelchair when folded is 74cm
  • Swing away, removable footrests.
  • Easy to fold away and transport
  • Latest model has attendant brakes on the handles to give additional control when pushing the chair
  • Choice of 4 colours for the Upholstery with an attractive Silver, Black and White Frame.

Call us today on 0330 383 9988 to get free delivery on this item or order via our website

Excel G-Explorer Self Propel All Terrain Wheelchair

g-explorer-head-photo

The all new Excel G-Explorer Wheelchair is an all terrain wheelchair that combines MTB (Mountain Bike) wheels with a proven lightweight durable frame to give you the control that you need. The Excel G-Explorer is suitable for all surfaces, with a 24″ rear wheel its perfect for rough terrain, with the ability to remove the rear wheels it will fit easily into most boots just simply press the button in on the rear wheel and it will come off in your hand no tools required!

With height adjustable armrests it allow for a variety of positions to offer the maximum amount of comfort.

  • Total height: 95 cm
  • Total width: Seat width + 22 cm
  • Total length: 108 cm
  • Total Weight: 12,5 kg
  • User Weight: Max. 113 kg
  • Available colours: Frame colours: black and grey
  • Seat width: 40, 45 and 50 cm
  • Seat depth: 42 cm
  • Seat height: 52 cm
  • Back height: 43 cm

Call us today on  0330 383 9988 to get free delivery on this wheelchair. or visit our website here

Learning About Arthritis And How To Alleviate It

Learning About Arthritis And How To Alleviate It

Unfortunately, more and more people are being diagnosed with Arthritis. So, you are not alone. Find support from others. Here are some handy tips others have found helpful in dealing with Arthritis, please read on:

Be sure to get enough exercise and that you are doing the right kinds of exercise. People with arthritis should choose exercises that support and strengthen the joints, such as swimming, instead of exercises that damage them, such as running. Failing to exercise can also increase joint stiffness and pain.

Buy products that are specially designed for arthritis sufferers. There is no need to struggle with tasks like opening a jar, buttoning your shirt or turning a doorknob when there are products on the market designed to help you do all of those things. In fact, there are products designed to help arthritis sufferers with just about any task you can think of. Try searching online for arthritis-friendly products or check with any of the leading arthritis organizations for a list of helpful products.

Stretch everyday. One of the most common problems for people with arthritis is that they lose flexibility. Doing stretches each day to keep all your muscles and joints flexible can prevent this. Begin at the bottom of the body, and then slowly move upwards until you reach the head.

Planning ahead is important. You cannot know which days your arthritis is going to bother you again. If you have everything you need at home, you will be able to relieve the pain quickly. Split tasks into segments in order to provide time for resting, and always make sure you are able to stop what you are doing whenever necessary.

Apply a little heat next time you have fatigue inducing pain. While lots of people believe cold works well for most pain, this is not true with arthritis sufferers. Pain that results in fatigue is best treated with heat, as it can supply you with energy as well.

Let the sun in. Vitamin D has been shown to help relieve some symptoms of arthritis, and sunshine is well-known for increasing positive thoughts and bettering moods. Opening your blinds for around fifteen minutes every day can be enough to give you some great benefits, while still being in the comfort of your home.

Go for a walk after supper. If you walk after dinner you will feel better and you will have more energy. Even a quick walk with a pal will offer numerous health benefits and opportunities to spend quality time together.

Castor oil rubbed into your joints can be an effective way to reduce the pain and swelling of arthritis. By massaging the oil into your joints, you are adding an additional level of relief. The flowing of blood is increased by the massage, while swelling is reduced due to castor oil.

Find a rubber mat to place at your stove to help prevent back and leg pain while you are standing and cooking. These buoyancy of these mats help keep pressure off of your legs which will do wonders for keeping your body feeling healthy. Buy one as well for in front of your sink to use when you are washing dishes.

Do as much reading and researching as you can to learn about all the new innovations in arthritis therapy, both in the mainstream world of medicine and in a vast variety of alternative therapies. By knowing what’s available to you, you will be able to create the most effective and creative therapy plan to address your arthritis pain needs.

Now, do you have some handy tips in mind to help with Arthritis? Remember, you are not alone. Unfortunately, more and more people are being diagnosed with it. There is also more information available! Get support from others. Share information. Apply the tips above that fit your circumstances. Perhaps relieve is in sight!

Solid Advice For Living Well With Diabetes

Solid Advice For Living Well With Diabetes

Many people today realize that they can manage their diabetes more than they had perviously thought. If you are one of these people then you’re in the right place. Managing diabetes is all about educating yourself, and tips like the ones in this article should help you learn how to manage your diabetes more effectively.

If you don’t like the taste of beans but are trying to eat properly now that you’ve been diagnosed with Diabetes, why not try eating Hummus? It is made from creamed Garbanzo Beans and it’s smooth, thick, and delicious! You can eat it on a sandwich instead of mayonnaise, or spread on crackers.

Diabetics have to watch their carbohydrate intake, and bread is a major player in a typical American’s diet. Try to find a bread with at least 5 grams of fiber AND protein per slice so that eating it is validated by the nutrients it’s carrying. Also avoid preservatives as they’re not healthy either.

If you’re looking for a salty snack but your diabetes is holding you back, look no further than a jar of olives! They’re a fruit, tasty, healthy, and fun to eat. You can cut them up and put them in salads, or even on a sandwich! I love to make a homemade submarine sandwich and sprinkle some on top. YUM!

If you’re having trouble getting the motivation to exercise after being diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, get in the game! Competitive sports are not only fun, but you have other people who rely on you to show up so that there are enough players for a game. Having them breathing down your neck will convince you to be on time!

If you feel the need for a side dish with dinner, skip the potato chips and reach for a bag of corn chips. Whole grain tortilla chips provide a ton of fiber while being really tasty. Dip them in salsa to get some vegetables, fruit, and a dose of vinegar, which will keep your blood sugar levels from spiking.

Drinking water is important for everyone, but is especially so for diabetics. There is a reason that most diabetics drink like a fish before they are diagnosed and begin treatment! Keep your water intake high to help you keep your weight down and your hydration up, especially if you exercise.

If you suffer from diabetes or are at risk of developing the disease, it is a good idea to eat a diet that is high in fiber. Fiber, which is found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans prevents diabetes by buffering the sugar or carbohydrates in your diet, keeping your blood sugar even instead of having it fluctuate.

To save money, the American Diabetes Association approves the re-use of testing lancets. These are the needles used by your glucometer to test your blood sugar. Re-using them does result in them becoming dull, so be sure to change them out when you notice the pain level of your testing rising. Never share lancets.

Just like you’re able to buy generic diabetic prescriptions and stay healthy, generic food items can be just as good as their brand name counterparts. Saving money is important to everyone, especially when you’re on a relatively strict diet. If you’re going to buy the generic brand, compare the ingredient list and nutrition data to the brand name to make sure you’re getting the same quality.

With the above useful information on how to manage your diabetes, you should start feeling confident with ways you can manage it. Remember that there’s more information out there too. If you continue to learn about how to control your diabetes, and apply it diligently, you should be successful in managing your diabetes.

Excel Globetraveller Lightweight Wheelchair

excel globetravller lightweight wheelchair excel globetraveller wheelchair

 

The Excel Globetraveller Lightweight Wheelchair is a lightweight wheelchair that it available in 2 sized rear wheels, complete with a half folding back, this wheelchair has a lightweight frame for ease of lifting. Complete with full arm rest which offers a greater deal of comfort.

Also with a larger front castor than most this wheelchair can go better over rough terrain, this wheelchair is also perfect for short trips or hospital visits with its sleek look and design it doesnt look like a bog standard wheelchair.