Fact Checked
Rheumatism is a collection of painful conditions that usually affects different parts of the body but in some cases, it can also affect the internal organs such as the lungs, kidneys, heart and even the skin.
Rheumatism is also called fibromyalgia or fibromyositis which is more likely to occur among the elderly and middle aged but can also affect people of all ages.
Common symptoms of rheumatism
- Pain in the joints and muscles
- Stiffness and aching with no apparent cause
- Numbness and tingling sensation in the arms and legs
- Severe fatigue
- Headaches and fever
- Loss of sleep
- Recurrent pain in the abdomen
- Pain in the eye
- Swelling and soreness
- Irregular urination
- Diarrhea
- Anxiety
- Difficulty in swallowing
A rheumatic “attack” usually begins with the swelling of the joint such as the knee or the ankle while the skin found around the joint becomes reddened and pain spreads to other joints over in a few days. Any movement causes severe pain and bed rest is necessary.
Common causes of rheumatism
- Rheumatism can be caused by heredity
- The environment might be a factor for rheumatism due to certain climatic conditions.
- Consuming foods that are high in acid, high white sugar content, red meats as well as fatty and starchy foods.
- An imbalance of hormones that cause rheumatism and the symptoms.
- Infection of the mouth and teeth can cause the development of rheumatism
- Conditions such as gallbladder disease can increase the risk of having rheumatism.
Treatment and home remedies for rheumatism
- Apply hot or cold compress to the affected areas. A warm compress helps in relaxing the muscle and for proper blood circulation. A moist heating pad or a warm towel can also be used by pressing it gently on the affected area of the body helps to lessen pain.
- Take hot Epsom salt baths at least two times in a week in order to help improve the circulation and lessen the symptoms of rheumatism. Another way is soaking the affected areas in hot water that is mixed with Epsom salts at least two times every day to help with the condition.
- Perform regular exercises every day since it helps in promoting health, improves muscle tone and promote proper blood circulation.
- Perform meditative and gentle exercises such as tai chi, yoga, walking and swimming.
- Eat a healthy diet that are rich in vitamins and minerals such as varieties of fruits and vegetables, whole grain, olive oil, beans, herbs and spices since these helps in the fast healing of the condition.
- Consume seafood such as tuna, salmon and sardines that contain omega-3 fatty acids which helps in minimizing joint pain and morning stiffness caused by rheumatism.
- Soak unpeeled potato slices overnight in a glass with cold water and drink this solution every morning with an empty stomach since it helps with the condition.