Over 50? Keeping Up With Your Healthcare Needs

Over 50? Keeping Up With Your Healthcare Needs

The Best Over-The-Counter Treatments For Arthritis

Nellie Ryan

If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, you are likely aware of the flare-ups that frequently occur. You should see a doctor so you can have your condition diagnosed and receive a prescription for a proper treatment. But there are also a few natural remedies that can help alleviate the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Creams, Gels and Lotions

Some creams, gels and lotions are designed specifically to provide temporary pain relief. These products can include ingredients such as capsaicin, menthol and turpentine oil. These products are usually applied about three times a day. When you first try out this product, apply a small quantity to an area that experiences pain to determine if the application is effective.

While creams, gels, and lotions contain similar ingredients, they can affect individual patients differently. Gels are less likely to clog the pores, so some patients find them superior to creams. However, gels are more likely to cause dryness and skin irritation, which means that gels are better if you have oily skin.

Creams and lotions are ideal for those who already have dry skin. However, lotions tend to evaporate more quickly than creams and have less of an impact. Therefore, creams work better for dry skin, and lotions work better for normal skin. Once you select the right product for your skin type, you will be better able to deliver pain-relieving benefits to your skin.

Fish Oil

Taking fish oil supplements has been found to reduce arthritic pain by reducing stiffness and inflammation. Fish oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids and is created from the tissues of cold-water fish. Omega-3 fatty acids block prostaglandins and cytokines, which cause inflammation. Consult your doctor to make sure that fish oil will not interfere with any medications you currently take. Occasionally, fish oil can cause side effects such as back pain and liver disease. Fish oil is usually only a concern if you exceed the recommended dosage on the label. 

Primrose Oil

Certain plant oils also serve as a useful rheumatology treatment. The fatty acid gamma-linolenic, found in primrose oil, can treat arthritis. The oil can be consumed in a capsule or in oil form. If you choose to use the oil form, you can simply rub the oil on your skin. Like with fish oil, consult with your doctor before you start to use primrose oil. Primrose oil is generally harmless, but some individuals experience bruising or bleeding while they use it if they have bleeding disorders. Those who suffer from epilepsy are more likely to experience seizures if they use primrose oil.


Share

2024© Over 50? Keeping Up With Your Healthcare Needs
About Me
Over 50? Keeping Up With Your Healthcare Needs

As an adult in my 50s, I find that my body isn't as strong as it used to be. But I don't let that stop me from enjoying life! In fact, I make every effort to get the treatments I need from my doctor to improve my health. I know that I'm not a senior yet, but I do all I can to prevent the health problems that affect that age group. Because of this, I put together a health blog for people over age 50. My blog isn't a review of what you can easily find on the Internet. It's a plethora of unique information designed to help you find the services you need fast. What my blog doesn't do is tell you what to do for your health. Instead, it offers guidance and options. Please, enjoy the blog and happy reading.

Tags