Hello, sfbuckaroo-ga!
I whole-heartedly sympathize with your desire to reach a proper
diagnosis concerning your arthritic symptoms! It can be extremely
frustrating to suffer from various aches and pains without having any
clue as to their origin. Unfortunately, specific forms of arthritis
can be hard to diagnose, so you are running up against a double-edged
sword.
I have sifted through the major types of arthritis and compiled
information about indications and diagnostic testing for those types
that seem most applicable to your symptoms. For the other major types,
I have simply included links so that you can rule them out or pursue
more information, if you desire.
I have also taken the liberty of including a few references to
alternative medicine, just in case you have any interest in reading
about some common naturopathic reasoning behind gastrointestinal
disorders and arthritic symptoms. If you have no desire to consider
such a connection, you may simply ignore that part of my answer. No
offense taken, I promise!!
It is important to stress that Google Answers is not to be a
substitute for medical diagnosis or advice. Therefore, I will refrain
from providing any treatment suggestions or theories about a diagnosis
and simply let the information I have provided speak for itself. **
However, if you read something of particular interest, please do not
hesitate to ask for additional clarification and I will try to provide
some references that speak specifically to your concerns.
*********************************************************************
OVERVIEW OF TESTS FOR DIAGNOSING AND EVALUATING ARTHRITIC CONDITIONS
*********************************************************************
From "Diagnosing Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases
http://www.aa-healthsystem.org/fhr/Adult/arthritis/content.php?pageid=P00050
The following list includes common laboratory tests for diagnosing
arthritis and other rheumatic diseases (from the National Institute of
Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases).
Antinuclear antibody (ANA)
===========================
Measures blood levels of antibodies, which are often present in
persons with rheumatic disease.
Arthrocentesis (Also called joint aspiration)
==============================================
Obtaining a sample of synovial fluid in the joint for examination by
inserting a thin, hollow needle into the joint and removing the fluid
with a syringe.
Complement
==========
Measures the level of complement, a group of proteins in the blood;
low levels of complement in the blood are associated with lupus.
Complete blood count (CBC)
============================
Measures the number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and
platelets present in a sample of blood; a low white blood count
(leukopenia), low red blood count (anemia), or low platelet count
(thrombocytopenia) are associated with certain rheumatic diseases or
the medications to treat them.
Creatinine
==========
A blood test to monitor for underlying kidney disease.
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (Also called ESR or sed rate)
============================================================
A measurement of how quickly red blood cells fall to the bottom of a
test tube. When swelling and inflammation are present, the blood's
proteins clump together and become heavier than normal. Thus, when
measured, they fall and settle faster at the bottom of the test tube.
Generally, the faster the blood cells fall, the more severe the
inflammation.
Hematocrit (PCV, packed cell volume)
====================================
Measures the number of red blood cells present in a sample of blood.
Low levels of red blood cells (anemia) is common in people with
inflammatory arthritis and rheumatic diseases.
Rheumatoid Factor
==================
Detects whether rheumatoid factor is present in the blood (an antibody
found in the blood of most, but not all, people who have rheumatoid
arthritis, as well as other rheumatic diseases).
Urinalysis
==========
Laboratory examination of urine for various cells and chemicals, such
as red blood cells, white blood cells, infection, or excessive
protein; to indicate kidney disease associated with several rheumatic
diseases.
White Blood Cell Count (WBC)
============================
Measures the number of white blood cells in the blood; increased
levels of white blood cells may indicate an infection, while decreased
levels may indicate certain rheumatic diseases or reaction to
medication.
Imaging Techniques
====================
* X-Ray - a diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic
energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs
onto film.
* Computed Tomography Scan (Also called a CT or CAT scan.) - a
diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and
computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called
slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan
shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones,
muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general
x-rays.
* Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - a diagnostic procedure that uses
a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to
produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
* Arthroscopy - a minimally-invasive diagnostic and treatment
procedure used for conditions of a joint. This procedure uses a small,
lighted, optic tube (arthroscope) which is inserted into the joint
through a small incision in the joint. Images of the inside of the
joint are projected onto a screen; used to evaluate any degenerative
and/or arthritic changes in the joint; to detect bone diseases and
tumors; to determine the cause of bone pain and inflammation
From "Diagnosing Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases
http://www.aa-healthsystem.org/fhr/Adult/arthritis/content.php?pageid=P00050
==
More about individual blood tests may be found in the following article:
"Blood Tests For Evaluating Arthritis."
http://arthritis.about.com/cs/diagnostic/a/bloodtests.htm
*********************************************************
MAJOR TYPES OF ARTHRITIS AND SPECIFIC TESTING PROCEDURES
*********************************************************
The Arthritis Society and Wrong Diagnosis.com are two comprehensive
websites that cover the major types of arthritis. I have compiled some
detailed information about the types of arthritis that seem most
applicable to your symptoms, and provided links to other types of
arthritis that seem less likely to be a source of your problems.
The Wrong Diagnosis website is a conglomeration of links that lead
down never-ending rabbit trails! You might want to investigate this
site in more depth *after* you have read through the links I have
compiled. It is good information but I believe you could spend an
entire day on this one website!!!!
Major types of arthritis compiled by Wrong Diagnosis.com
* Osteoarthritis - most common type occurring with aging and "wear-and-tear".
* Rheumatoid arthritis - second most common type; not caused by aging.
* Psoriatic arthritis - occurring with psoriasis
* Infectious arthritis
Gonococcal arthritis - caused by gonorrhea
Parvovirus arthritis - caused by parvovirus
* Reactive arthritis - occurring after an infection.
* Reiter?s syndrome
* Gout
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/a/arthritis/subtypes.htm
=
Major types of arthritis from the Arthritis Society of Canada
* Ankylosing Spondylitis
* Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
* Childhood Arthritis
* Chronic Back Injury
* Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH)
* Fibromyalgia
* Gout
* Infectious Arthritis
* Lupus
* Lyme Disease
* Osteoarthritis
* Osteoporosis
* Paget's Disease
* Polymyalgia Rheumatica
* Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis
* Pseudogout
* Psoriatic Arthritis
* Raynaud's Phenomenon
* Reactive Arthritis
* Reiter's Syndrome
* Repetitive Stress Injury
* Rheumatoid Arthritis
* Scleroderma
* Sjögren's Syndrome
Homepage: http://www.arthritis.ca/custom%20home/default.asp?s=1
===============
OSTEOARTHRITIS
===============
"Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by the breakdown
and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. Cartilage is
a protein substance that serves as a "cushion" between the bones of
the joints. Osteoarthritis is also known as degenerative arthritis.
Among the over 100 different types of arthritis conditions,
osteoarthritis is the most common, affecting over 20 million people in
the United States. Osteoarthritis occurs more frequently as we age.
Before age 45, osteoarthritis occurs more frequently in males. After
age 55 years, it occurs more frequently in females.
"Osteoarthritis commonly affects the hands, feet, spine, and large
weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees. Most cases of
osteoarthritis have no known cause and are referred to as primary
osteoarthritis. When the cause of the osteoarthritis is known, the
condition is referred to as secondary osteoarthritis."
(From Medicine.Net http://www.medicinenet.com/Osteoarthritis/article.htm )
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis (a long list!!)
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/o/osteoarthritis/symptoms.htm
Types of Osteoarthritis
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/o/osteoarthritis/subtypes.htm
Diagnostic Tests for Osteoarthritis
-----------------------------------
Physical examination
X-rays
Tests to rule out other types of arthritis
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/o/osteoarthritis/tests.htm
Complete overview of Osteoarthritis from the Arthritis Society
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/osteoarthritis/default.asp?s=1
=====================
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
=====================
"Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that causes pain,
swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints. It has
several special features that make it different from other kinds of
arthritis (see information box in link below). For example, rheumatoid
arthritis generally occurs in a symmetrical pattern. This means that
if one knee or hand is involved, the other one is also. The disease
often affects the wrist joints and the finger joints closest to the
hand. It can also affect other parts of the body besides the joints
(see illustrations below). In addition, people with the disease may
have fatigue, occasional fever, and a general sense of not feeling
well (malaise)."
(See the long list of symptoms)
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/r/rheumatoid_arthritis/symptoms.htm
Diagnostic Tests for Rheumatoid arthritis
-----------------------------------------
Physical exam
Rheumatoid factor blood test - an antibody test
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
CBC
White blood cell count
ANA antibody test - useful for Pauciarticular JRA
Joint x-rays
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/r/rheumatoid_arthritis/tests.htm
** For more on diagnostic testing, please read the following:
"HOW IS RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS DIAGNOSED?" University of Maryland Medicine
http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/how_rheumatoid_arthritis_diagnosed_000048_6.htm
"Rheumatoid arthritis may be difficult to diagnose. Many other
conditions can resemble it and its symptoms can develop insidiously.
Blood tests and x-rays may show normal results for months after the
onset of joint pain. Even after rheumatoid arthritis has been
diagnosed, it is extremely important to determine whether the course
of the disease is benign (type 1) or aggressive (type 2) in order to
treat the problem appropriately."
Diseases with Similar Symptoms to Rheumatoid Arthritis:
* Osteoarthritis
* Infectious Arthritis
* Lyme disease, septic arthritis, bacterial endocarditis, mycobacterial and
fungal arthritis, viral arthritis
* Postinfectious or Reactive Arthritis
* Reiters syndrome (a disorder characterized by arthritis and inflammation in
the eye and urinary tract), rheumatic fever, inflammatory bowel disease
* Crystal Induced Arthritis
* Gout and pseudogout
* Other rheumatic Autoimmune Diseases:
Systemic vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, Still's
Disease (also called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) Behcet's disease
* Fibromyalgia
* Other Diseases:
Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, hepatitis C, familial Mediterranean
fever, cancers, AIDS, leukemia, bunions, Whipple's disease, dermatomyositis,
Henoch-Schonlein purpura, Kawasaki's disease, erythema nodosum, erythema
multiforme, pyoderma gangrenosum, pustular psoriasis
==
Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis from the Arthritis Society:
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/ra/default.asp?s=1
====================
INFECTIOUS ARTHRITIS
====================
"This is a general term used to describe forms of arthritis that are
caused by infectious agents, such as bacteria or viruses. Parvovirus
arthritis, gonococcal arthritis, and Lyme disease are examples of
infectious arthritis. In those cases caused by bacteria, early
diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics relieve the arthritis
symptoms and cure the disease."
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/i/infectious_arthritis/intro.htm
=
What causes infectious arthritis?
=================================
"Infectious arthritis is caused by a germ that has travelled through
the body to a joint. The germ can be a bacterium, a virus or a fungus.
The germ may have entered your body through the skin, nose, throat or
ears, or through a wound. Often you may have already been sick as a
result of the infection before it travels to the joints."
"Bacteria cause most cases of infectious arthritis. The types of
bacteria that might cause such infection include:
gonococcus
staphylococcus
streptococcus
pneumococcus
hemophilus
spirochetes
tuberculosis
Certain viruses can also cause infectious arthritis. They include:
infectious hepatitis
mumps
infectious mononucleosis
Fungi are the least common cause of infectious arthritis. They are
usually found in:
soil
bird droppings
certain plants, such as roses
Diagnostic Testing
===================
"Establishing the correct diagnosis is important, so if your doctor
thinks you have infectious arthritis, he or she may ask questions
about the symptoms, other medical conditions, recent travel,
illnesses, and contact with people who may have had infections. He or
she may also perform a physical examination, and order x-rays and
other tests to find out what germ is causing the infection. This can
be done by using a needle to removing a sample of fluid from the joint
so it can be examined. If tuberculosis or a fungus is the suspected
cause, sometimes a small piece of tissue from the joint may need to be
cut away and examined. If a virus is suspected, a blood test may be
done because your body develops cells called antibodies to fight off
the virus. These antibodies will show up in a blood test."
"People with infectious arthritis are often put in the hospital for
treatment. Sometimes affected joints must be drained of excess fluid
that has built up. This is done by inserting a needle directly into
the joint. This procedure is usually painless. Sometimes the same
joint may need to be drained several times if fluid build-up recurs.
Further treatment varies depending on what type of germ has caused the
infection. Your active involvement in developing your treatment plan
is essential."
From the Arthritis Society
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/infectious/default.asp?s=1
=
Some causes of Infectious arthritis from Wrong Diagnosis
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/i/infectious_arthritis/causes.htm
See Ross River virus (don't know if this applies to Sri Lanka!)
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/r/ross_river_virus/intro.htm
==================
REACTIVE ARTHRITIS
==================
"Arthritis developing after a digestive, urinary or other infection.
This form of arthritis develops after an infection involving the lower
urinary tract, bowel, or other organs. It is commonly associated with
eye problems, skin rashes, and mouth sores. Reiter?s syndrome is an
example of reactive arthritis."
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/r/reactive_arthritis/intro.htm
=
Diagnostic Testing
===================
"Diagnosis may be difficult as there is no specific test that confirms
reactive arthritis is present. Your doctor will probably perform a
physical examination and order other tests such as x-rays and blood
tests. One test called an ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
measures the level of red blood cells that are settling in the muscle.
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is often high in people with
reactive arthritis. If you have reactive arthritis you may also have
anaemia. This is a condition of the blood that can cause you to look
pale, and feel weak, sleepy and dizzy."
"Other tests your doctor may perform include tests of your stool
(feces), or the fluids and tissues of your urethra or joints. About
half of patients with reactive arthritis have a positive HLA-B27 test.
This suggests a genetic predisposition to reactive arthritis but it
is not always an indication of the disease."
"In many cases reactive arthritis goes away on its own within a few
days or a few weeks. Some cases may take up to four months before
they completely resolve. Other people have recurrent attacks.
However, given treatment most people with reactive arthritis manage
well. Your active involvement in developing your treatment plan is
essential."
See the complete overview from the Arthritis Society:
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/reactive%20arthritis/default.asp?s=1
=================
REITER'S SYNDROME
=================
"Reiter's (pronounced rIt-erz) syndrome is the name of a type of
reactive arthritis. Reactive arthritis is caused by some kinds of
bacteria. The bacteria cause a person to get sick, and then later
travel through the body to the joints between bones. The joints swell
and become painful. This is called inflammation. With Reiter's
syndrome the bacteria also affect other areas of the body, such as the
skin, eyes, and muscles. Many people with Reiter's syndrome get better
after four to five months, but about half of people who get it will be
affected for several years."
* Read about symptoms and causes.
Diagnostic Testing
-------------------
"Establishing the correct diagnosis early on is important, so if your
doctor thinks you have Reiter's syndrome, he or she may ask questions
about the symptoms, other medical conditions, recent travel,
illnesses, and contact with people who may have had infections.
Because there is a usually a lag time of several days to weeks between
the infection that is the underlying cause of the arthritis and the
onset of inflammation, a person might not connect the two events and
so not think of mentioning the previous infection. Your doctor may
also perform a physical examination, and order x-rays and other tests
to find out what has caused the arthritis."
"There are no specific lab tests for Reiter's syndrome. Blood tests
may be done to rule out other forms of arthritis and to identify the
type of bacterial infection. A blood test may also be done to check if
you have the HLA B-27 tissue type. While having this tissue type may
indicate that you are more at risk of developing Reiter's syndrome, a
positive test for HLA B-27 does not automatically mean you have the
disease."
"X-rays may help with the diagnosis because only some patients have
the condition called sacroiliitis (pronounced sac-ro-ill-ee-eye-tis),
which is inflammation of two joints in the lower back. This
inflammation may show up on the x-ray, however x-rays are more likely
to be positive after someone has had Reiter's syndrome for years."
"Other tests your doctor may perform include tests of your stool
(feces), or the fluids and tissues of your urethra or joints. If you
are a woman, if your doctor thinks you have Reiter's syndrome he or
she may also perform a pelvic examination or Pap smear. These tests
are done to detect whether cervicitis has occurred."
See the overview from the Arthritis Society:
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/reiters%20syndrome/default.asp?s=1
====================================================================
SOME OTHER SOURCES OF ARTHRITIS (from the Arthritis Society Website)
=====================================================================
The following types of arthritis seem less applicable after reading
your symptoms, so I have simply provided some links for comprehensive
information.
** All of these links provide information on diagnostic testing as well **
ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/as/default.asp?s=1
DIFFUSE IDIOPATHIC SKELETAL HYPEROSTOSIS (DISH)
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/dish/default.asp?s=1
FIBROMYALGIA
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/fibromyalgia/default.asp?s=1
GOUT
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/gout/default.asp?s=1
LUPUS
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/lupus/default.asp?s=1
LYME DISEASE
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/lyme%20disease/default.asp?s=1
OSTEOPOROSIS
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/osteoporosis/default.asp?s=1
PAGET'S DISEASE
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/pagets/default.asp?s=1
POLYMYALGIA RHEUMATICA
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/polymyalgia%20rheumatica/default.asp?s=1
POLYMYOSITIS AND DERMATOMYOSITIS
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/polymyositis/default.asp?s=1
PSEUDOGOUT
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/pseudogout/default.asp?s=1
PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/psoriatic%20arthritis/default.asp?s=1
RAYNAUD'S PHENOMENON
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/raynauds%20phenomenon/default.asp?s=1
REPETITIVE STRESS INJURY
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/repetitive%20stress%20injury/default.asp?s=1
SCLERODERMA
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/scleroderma/default.asp?s=1
SJOGRENS SYNDROME
http://www.arthritis.ca/types%20of%20arthritis/sjogrens%20syndrome/default.asp?s=1
==
OTHER CAUSES OF JOINT PAIN
===========================
Please read through the extensive list at Wrong Diagnosis.com
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/sym/joint_pain.htm
CONNECTION BETWEEN ARTHRITIS AND INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE
************************************************************
I know you have already explored this possibility, but it is worth
reading over again, given the severity of your IBS. I understand that
IBS is not the same as Crohn's or ulcerative colitis, but you might
want to have your physician explore this once more.
From "Arthritis: Gout, Spondyloarthropathies, etc." PMREHAB Pain &
Sports Medicine Associates. http://www.pmrehab.com/arthgt.htm
"Enteropathic arthritis is associated with crohns disease, ulcerative
colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome in 20% of those having these
diseases. Sacroiliitis develops in 20% of these patients and the
arthritis is usually asymmetrical lower extremity. Fever, malaise,
weight loss, and abdominal cramps are common."
==
According to "Diseases of the Small Bowel," by Dr. Nidiry. (January 16, 2004)
"Enteropathic arthritis is associated with many infections of the GI tract."
and
"sometimes an infection of the GI tract can precipitate these symptoms (of IBS)"
There just might be a connection there, even though your physician has
previously ruled it out. I don't know....and I am obviously NOT in a
position to speculate with any type of medical authority, so I am just
leaving that out there in case it is worth further consideration.
If you want to read the entire paper, which is quite interesting, you
will need to either copy and paste the title "Diseases of the Small
Bowel" or the following "cached" link into your browser:
http://216.239.57.104/search?q=cache:WggrfGbXWpYJ:www.zoey.med.howard.edu/2006/Diseases%2520of%2520Small%2520Bowel-Nidiry%25201.16.04.doc+IBS+AND+enteropathic+arthritis&hl=en
The paper is in the form of a word document, and the cached link may
not be workable when I post the answer.
ENTEROPATHIC ARTHRITIS
=======================
"A form of arthritis sometimes resembling rheumatoid arthritis which
may complicate the course of ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or
other intestinal disease."
http://www.dictionarybarn.com/ENTEROPATHIC-ARTHRITIS.php
The intestine connection ...Relationship of the Bowels with
Arthritis," by Stanley Hayes, M.D. (Fall 2002 Southwest Missouri
Regional Arthritis Center Newsletter, Arthritis News)
http://www.muhealth.org/~arthritis/articles/sep02/bowels.html
"Reactive and Enteropathic Arthritis," by Mary E Cronin, MD and Peter
D Utsinger, MD, Best Practice of Medicine. Merck Medicus (Last
modified November 14, 2001)
http://merck.praxis.md/index.asp?page=bpm_report&article_id=CPM02RH391§ion=report&ss=3
"Enteropathic arthritis: how do the joints talk with the gut?," by
Wollheim FA. Curr Opin Rheumatol. 2001 Jul;13(4):305-9. (Abstract)
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11555733&dopt=Abstract&holding=f1000
************************************************
NON-CONVENTIONAL OR NATUROPATHIC CONSIDERATIONS
************************************************
Because you have mentioned an inclination towards alternative methods
(namely, supplements) of dealing with your condition, and you have a
serious Irritable Bowel Syndrome including GERD, you might be open to
considering the gastrointestinal-arthritis connection proposed by many
naturopathic (and some conventional) physicians. Be mindful, however,
that most conventional doctors are not generally open to "alternative"
or "theoretical" conditions.
* I want to stress that I have included this as extra information
"just in case" you have an interest.
Candida Overgrowth Syndrome
----------------------------
From "Candida Overgrowth Syndrome." Whole Health MD.
http://www.wholehealthmd.com/print/view/1,1560,RA_560_learn,00.html
I have provided some excerpts but it is best to read the article in entirety!
What Causes Candida Overgrowth Syndrome?
-----------------------------------------
"According to nutritionally oriented physicians who treat COS, the
overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics is by far the most frequent
cause of the ailment. People who have been on antibiotic drugs for
long periods of time--to treat acne or recurrent sinus infections, for
example--are at particularly high risk for developing the disorder.
Because antibiotics so effectively wipe out bacteria (both the
beneficial strains and the harmful ones), they dramatically disrupt
the body's delicate balance of microorganisms. Candida yeast then
takes over. In addition, medications other than antibiotics can also
increase the body's susceptibility to Candida overgrowth. These drugs
include birth control pills and oral corticosteroids (such as
prednisone), which are commonly prescribed to control inflammatory and
autoimmune conditions such as lupus. Other factors that can increase a
person's susceptibility to COS include stress, a weakened immune
system (due to any cause), a high-sugar diet, hormonal changes from
pregnancy, and diabetes."
Key Symptoms
------------
* Bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, new sensitivities to commonly eaten
foods
* Fatigue, headache, depression, irritability, disorientation, dizziness,
inability to concentrate
* Sugar cravings, sensitivities to chemicals and perfumes, alcohol
intolerance, increased susceptibility to the side effects of medications
* Muscle and joint aches, ** sinusitis ** and recurrent colds, recurrent skin
rashes
====
From "Coping with Arthritis," by Eugene R. Zampieron, Ellen Kamhil.
Healthy & Natural Journal, Oct, 2000.
http://www.findarticles.com/cf_dls/m0HKL/5_7/66918303/p4/article.jhtml?term=
Dr. Alan Ebringer, professor of immunology at King's College, London,
is one conventional physician who has been studying the connection
between gastrointestinal bacteria and arthritic symptoms:
"Researchers such as Dr. Alan Ebringer of London have discovered that
autoimmune arthritis conditions are often created when the organisms
in the gut, through natural selection, mimic and camouflage themselves
to resemble human tissue. By doing so, the organisms are difficult to
detect by the immune system. When the immune system eventually makes
antibodies to the bacteria, it also begins to make antibodies to the
disguised human tissue. This is the genesis of an autoimmune disease
in which the body becomes "allergic" to itself and attacks it
vigorously, as is seen in rheumatoid arthritis."
==
Two excellent books which deal with gastrointestinal problems
(including IBS and GERD), abnormal intestinal bacteria and their
contribution to arthritic symptoms are "Patient Heal Thyself" and "The
Maker's Diet" by Jordan S. Rubin, N.M.D., Ph.D
You can read more about the books and the author on the following website:
http://www.gardenoflifeusa.com/company_jordan_rubin.shtml
http://www.gardenoflifeusa.com/company_jordan_rubin_story.shtml
I have these books and will be using the dietary and supplement
recommendations to help my daughter who is afflicted with Irritable
Bowel Syndrome. I have told her to be ready for a new eating plan when
she returns from college in two weeks! She has visited conventional
doctors and nothing has helped. After talking with some individuals
who have been helped by the eating plan and supplement regimen
included in the books, I believe it is worth an earnest attempt!
This route, again, is solely up to you! It is important to stress that
I do not endorse this program in any manner.
==
I certainly hope that the information I have provided helps to sort
out and synthesize the dominant types of arthritis and the testing
protocols for each one. I suggest that you print off any helpful
information from this answer, or the websites which contain the
extracted information, so that you can bring it along during your next
doctor's visit. It will help you define your questions -not to mention
surprise your physician with your take-charge personality. If only
more patients would be as proactive in their medical care!
Again, please do not hesitate to ask for clarification if you think I
can further define any aspects of the information I have provided.
Also, if you would like to pursue further information in a separate,
follow-up question, I would be more than happy to oblige. You can
either direct the question to me in the title, or leave it open for
another researcher.
Otherwise, I wish you the very best of luck in finding a diagnosis,
and my best wishes for improved health!
umiat
Google Search Strategy
varieties of arthritis
diagnosing arthritis
detecting rheumatoid arthritis
Irritable bowel and arthritis
enteropathic arthritis and Irritable bowel
fevers and arthritis
chronic low grade fever AND arthritis
types of reactive arthritis
arthritis in balls of feet
enteropathic arthritis
sources of joint pain
irritable bowel and joint pain
IBS AND enteropathic arthritis
Candida overgrowth syndrome |
Clarification of Answer by
umiat-ga
on
04 May 2004 23:49 PDT
Hello again, sfbuckaroo-ga!
Interestingly, there is a very specific type of arthritis called
Traumatic Arthritis (or post-traumatic arthritis). However, as the
name implies, this type of arthritis follows trauma - most usually an
injury that is more severe than the normal "bump". Many athletes
present with traumatic arthritis after years of repetitive strain or
injury to a joint. Major accidents that result in joint trauma can
also be a precipitating factor in traumatic, or post-traumatic
arthritis.
The fact that you have similar arthritic symptoms in both hands
(although one more than the other), and bit of pain in the balls of
your feet seems to point more toward a generalized arthritic condition
than a traumatic cause. (But again, I am not a doctor!)
I have excerpted a few descriptions of traumatic arthritis to provide
your with a better understanding of this condition.
Traumatic Arthritis
===================
From "Let's Talk About... Traumatic Arthritis," by Ben Benjamin, PhD.
http://www.massagetoday.com/archives/2001/06/13.html
"Traumatic arthritis is an inflammation of the joint and occurs as
part of the body's reaction to injury. Traumatic arthritis is usually
temporary; it is the body's way of protecting the injured joint."
"In certain joints, traumatic arthritis may occur with or without a
trauma. For instance, in the shoulder, a traumatic arthritis may occur
by itself without any precipitating injury to adjacent structures. The
joint progressively stiffens due to swelling and the subsequent
formation of scar tissue within the joint capsule. This condition,
also referred to as a frozen shoulder, usually resolves without
treatment in approximately nine months to a year."
"In most joints, traumatic arthritis is the result of an injury to the
supporting ligaments or other structures contained within or
associated with the joint. This injury triggers the body's
inflammatory response. For instance, if ligaments in the ankle are
sprained, the resulting joint swelling which generally occurs is
called a traumatic arthritis. If treated properly, the joint swelling
(traumatic arthritis) will be gone when the primary irritation to the
joint is eliminated, or the precipitating injury is addressed and
successfully treated. Sometimes this may take a period of time. If the
primary injury to the joint or the precipitating injury is not
addressed, the swelling may remain even longer, damaging the joint for
a lifetime."
=
From "About Arthritis."
http://www.goodnewsforbadhipsandknees.com/arthritis.htm
"Traumatic arthritis is due to an injury in which the cartilage
surface of the joint is injured. Usually the deepest layer of
cartilage, the one containing the cells that produce cartilage is
injured and subsequently articular cartilage is not produced in a
normal fashion resulting in the typical appearance of an
osteoarthritic joint with loss of articular cartilage. The treatment
is the same as for osteoarthritis."
=
From "Arthritis." Med Help.
http://www.med-help.net/Arthritis.html
"Traumatic arthritis: arthritis that is caused from blunt,
penetrating, or repeated trauma or from forced inappropriate motion of
a joint or ligament.
Symptoms: Swelling, pain, tenderness, joint instability, and internal bleeding.
Treatment: Analgesics, anti inflammatories, application of cold
followed by heat, and if needed, compression dressings, splinting,
joint aspiration, casting, or possibly surgery.
==
Another good discussion of post-traumatic arthritis can be found in
the following article:
"Pain: What is post traumatic osteoarthritis?" Myles Clough Jan 22 2002
http://www.mybrokenleg.com/faq/detail.html?id=38
==
Can you believe, while doing this search, I actually found the names
of all 162 forms of arthritis???? (Unfortunately, they are not links,
so they have to researched individually)
Here they are:
"162 Forms Of Arthritis."
http://www.calky.org/faces/162forms.htm
I looked up most all of them to see if any seemed to pertain to your
symptoms. Most of them are joint specific (usually knee, hip, shoulder
or spine), age-specific (pediatric), or present with obvious disease
symptoms that are more prominent than the arthritis.
==
You may want to review the connection between rheumatoid and
osteoarthritis and symptoms involving the hand, knuckles and feet. I
know these do not address the swelling that goes along with immediate
bumping of your knuckles against an object, but that may be more a
result of trauma to "already-inflamed" joints.
"Finger and Thumb Arthritis," From Jonathan Cluett, M.D.. Your Guide
to Orthopedics.
http://orthopedics.about.com/cs/generalinfo3/a/fingerinjury_3.htm
* This article provides a good comparison between the two types of arthritis
"Rheumatoid arthritis." OxMed
http://www.oxmed.com/docs/datafiles/rheumatoid%20arthritis.html
"In most people RA starts gradually with pain and swelling in the
knuckles, middle finger joints, wrists or *** balls of the feet." ***
Read "Rheumatoid Diseases and the Hand." Arthritis Insight
http://arthritisinsight.com/medical/disease/ra/hand.html
"Generally, the first and most common complaint is swelling of the
hand at the knuckles, that gives the fingers a spindle shape. This
swelling often happens in the wrist and the large knuckles in the
middle of the hand. The swollen tissue may destroy the ligaments that
hold the joints together, and damage cartilage and bone. This can
result in certain deformities. The wrist may turn toward the thumb
side of the hand, causing "ulnar drift" of the fingers (see Figure 1).
The swollen tissue may also produce damage, causing the tendons to
rupture. When the tendon ruptures, you may not be able to bend or
straighten your finger. Other problems that may happen are swelling
that causes pressure on the nerves (carpal tunnel syndrome), or lumps
(rheumatoid nodules) found over various joints of the hand and elbow."
"Arthritis of the Hand." AAOS
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=307&topcategory=Hand
==
I know this extra information still leaves the actual cause of your
arthritic condition unanswered. It does seem, however, from my
research, that the most likely culprits are either osteo or rheumatoid
arthritis. If that turns out to be the case, your next step should be
a positive attempt to gear your lifestyle toward alleviating the
symptoms as much as possible (either through conventional medical
remedies or a more holistic approach). It sure seems that you are the
type who will go all out to combat this problem to the best of your
ability.
Lastly, as a bike rider myself (mountain biker, actually) .. I have
to say that your ride from Edinburgh to Athens must have been a blast!
Keep enjoying life the best you can. That is half the battle.
If I can be of further help, let me know. I wish you all the best!
Sincerely,
umiat
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