Connected Rheumatology

You trusted home for autoimmune information

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Transform Your Autoimmune Health with Small Diet Changes

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Managing an autoimmune condition can be challenging, and one of the most common questions asked is, “What should I be eating?” It’s a great question, and one that shows you’re ready to take charge of your health. Let’s dive into how your diet can make a big difference when you’re living with an autoimmune disease.

The Role of Diet in Autoimmune Disease

When you’re dealing with an autoimmune disease, your immune system is on overdrive, causing inflammation throughout your body. Inflammation is a natural body response but becomes overdramatic and inappropriate in autoimmune disease, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. That’s where diet comes in.

[Read more…] about Transform Your Autoimmune Health with Small Diet Changes

JIA v. RA: Key Differences

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When we think about arthritis, it’s usually in the context of adults. But what happens when kids are affected? If you’ve heard about Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), you might be wondering how it differs from what adults experience. Let’s dive into the world of JIA, how it compares to Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), and what you need to know about managing joint pain in children.

What is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis?

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a type of arthritis that affects children under 16. Unlike Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), which is typically an adult condition, JIA presents some unique challenges and characteristics. The term “idiopathic” in JIA means that we don’t have a clear understanding of what causes it. However, we do know that it involves inflammation in the joints, which is why it’s grouped under autoimmune conditions.

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Getting Off Prednisone the Right Way

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Prednisone can be a lifesaver, but it’s also a bit of a necessary evil. Let’s talk about how to taper off this medication without wreaking havoc on your body.

What is Prednisone and Why Do We Use It?

Prednisone is a synthetic version of cortisol, a hormone made by our adrenal glands that’s vital for every system in our body, including regulating inflammation. In rheumatology, prednisone is a go-to because it’s about 3-5 times stronger than our natural cortisol. It’s used to quickly bring down inflammation in various autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, myositis, vasculitis, and PMR. If you’ve ever flared up, chances are you’ve been prescribed prednisone to get things under control fast.

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Autoimmune Health and Your Diet

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Managing an autoimmune condition can be challenging, and one of the most common questions asked is, “What should I be eating?” It’s a great question, and one that shows you’re ready to take charge of your health. Let’s dive into how your diet can make a big difference when you’re living with an autoimmune disease.

The Role of Diet in Autoimmune Disease

When you’re dealing with an autoimmune disease, your immune system is on overdrive, causing inflammation throughout your body. Inflammation is a natural body response but becomes overdramatic and inappropriate in autoimmune disease, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. That’s where diet comes in.

[Read more…] about Autoimmune Health and Your Diet

Hospitalized with autoimmune disease

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The truth is, only a minority of patients with autoimmune disease will ever really need to put this information in action. When you are hospitalized with an autoimmune condition you feel scared and helpless. Knowing what to expect and how best to take care of yourself during and after your hospital stay BEFORE it ever happens is self-care every autoimmune patient needs. 

Regardless of the incredible advancements we’ve made in rheumatology, sometimes the safest place for an autoimmune patient is the hospital. This could be to receive IV (intravenous) treatments, to undergo certain tests quickly or to stabilize and monitor worrisome vital signs. Autoimmune patients, in particular, can find themselves needing the hospital as there is a wide variety of symptoms possible.

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