Q: TWO years ago I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. I was only given anti-inflammatory medication and if I stopped taking it, the pain and uneasiness would return. How can I reduce the pain?


A: RHEUMATOID arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect the entire body. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, including the synovial membranes surrounding the lubricating fluid in the joints.

Common symptoms of RA include fatigue, low-grade fever, weakness, joint stiffness, vague joint pain and appearance of painful, swollen joints. Involved joints will characteristically be quite warm, tender and swollen.

Some herbs may be beneficial for RA. For instance, celery seed has anti-inflammatory properties and combined with guaiacum can be very helpful for those suffering from RA.

A combination of antioxidants will help to protect against degenerative diseases like RA.

Omega-3 oil has produced favourable changes in suppressing the production of inflammatory compounds and shown to be effective in reducing the problem of tender joints and morning stiffness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Reduce your meat intake, especially that of beef, and vegetables such as tomato, potato, eggplant and peppers. This is due to the toxin called sotanine which people suffering from RA are highly sensitive to. RA sufferers should exercise regularly. Go for swimming, stretching and walking. Try to reduce or avoid smoking and alcohol consumption as they can cause excessive free radical formation.