Arthritis Health Center

News and Features Related to Arthritis

101. Painkillers Linked to Heart Rhythm Disorder
     

     July 6, 2011 -- Widely used anti-inflammatory pain relievers may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder associated with stroke and heart failure. In a newly published study from Denmark, use of non-selective, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Cox-2 i

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102. Treating RA: Is It Time for a Biologic?
     

     Since they were first introduced in 1998, biologic response modifiers -- or biologics -- have made a huge difference in the lives of people with rheumatoid arthritis. These powerful drugs don't just treat the symptoms of RA. Biologics for rheumatoid arthritis can target the underlying cause, relievi

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103. Lupus, Sex, and Relationships
     

     The chronic pain and fatigue associated with lupus can affect more than your health; many patients find that their condition interferes with their sexual relationships, as well. Reasons for that include lupus flare-ups, pain, fatigue, side effects from medication, and self-image issues. And that's o

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104. RA, Smoking, and Alcohol
     

     You already know that smoking is bad for you and that it's unhealthy to drink too much alcohol. But do you know how tobacco and alcohol relate to rheumatoid arthritis -- your odds of developing RA, or, if you already have RA, your odds of making it worse? Here's what the research shows. Smoking may

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105. Treating RA: Choosing The Right Biologic for You
     

     In the late ’90s, biologic response modifiers changed expectations for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. People with RA-related pain, inflammation, and possible disability had a new and better way to control the condition. Since the first biologics’ success, new ones have continued to enter the ma

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106. Biologics for RA: Understanding Risks and Benefits
     

     Medications called biologic response modifiers have given new hope to people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the doctors who treat them. Until the late ’90s, people with RA looked at a future of pain, lost function, and eventual disability. Biologics have changed that outlook. Many people now liv

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107. Some RA Drugs May Lower Diabetes Risk
     

     June 21, 2011 -- Specific drugs used to treat inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriasis may also help protect patients with these conditions from developing type 2 diabetes, a study shows. Use of TNF-inhibitor biologic agents such as Enbrel, Humira, and Remicade, and hydroxy

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108. FDA Panel Rejects Gout Drug on Safety Concerns
     

     June 21, 2011 -- Safety concerns led an FDA advisory to oppose approval of new drug for gout on Tuesday, despite widespread enthusiasm for the medication's effectiveness against the painful disorder. The recommendation is likely to push the FDA to hold off on approving the drug, known by the brand n

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109. New Oral RA Drug Works in Unique Way
     

     May 26, 2011 -- An experimental drug called tofacitinib may help treat rheumatoid arthritis -- and it's taken as a pill, rather than as an injection or infusion. In London, researchers reported results from a study in which rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients took tofacitnib or a placebo. Tofacitinib

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110. Lupus, Skin Care, and Makeup
     

     Amanda Greene, 43, stashes a tube of sunscreen in her purse and car so that she can reapply it throughout the day -- as frequently as some women touch up their makeup. Using sun protection is second nature for Greene, who was diagnosed with lupus (SLE) at 15 and is photosensitive. "I use it from hea

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