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Stiff and painful neck Question : I AM 43
years old and lately, I have been suffering from a stiff neck. It starts
suddenly and there is pain with movement. Sometimes, it may be accompanied
with fever and even affects the shoulder blade. The stiff neck comes and
goes. What should I do ?
Answer : FROM your description, you may be suffering from
rheumatoid arthritis. However, it is best to visit the doctor to get a
proper diagnosis.
Rheumatoid arthritis 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. Other parts of the body involved are the
hands and feet, wrists, ankles, knees and spine.
This disease is characterised by early morning joint stiffness and pain
and inflammation in symmetrically located joints. The fingers and toes are
usually the first to be affected, though it is not uncommon for pain to
spread to the joints throughout the body.
Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include fatigue, low-grade fever,
weakness, joint stiffness, vague joint pain and appearance of painful,
swollen joints.
Omega-3 oil has been shown to suppress the production of inflammatory
compounds secreted by white blood cells, thus showing improvement in the
number of tender joints on physical examination and amount of morning
stiffness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Boswellia is highly regarded as an effective therapy for a number of
inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and
cervical spondilitis.
Reduce meat intake. This will help to decrease the availability of
arachidonic acid which is found in animal sources. Arachidonic acid is
involved in the formation of important mediators of inflammation i.e.
prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotrienes.
Increase the intake of green leafy vegetables, which will help to lower
the risk of getting arthritis. Increased fibre intake may help in repairing
tissues. Vegetables also supply vitamins and minerals, which help to reduce
the risk of inflammation.
Exercise regularly. Reduce or quit smoking. This is due to the allergen
factor in tobacco. Besides, cigarette smoke can cause free radical damage.
The obese should lose weight to lessen the pressure on weight-bearing
joints. Reduce alcohol consumption. Reduce stress and get sufficient rest at
night.
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