Risk of Depression is Higher Among Arthritis Sufferers

(Newswire.net — October 28, 2016) Orlando, FL — Arthritic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are some of the most common conditions that cause pain and immobility. However, it seems that these types of conditions not only impact sufferers physically, but also mentally. 

Risk of depression and suicide are believed to be higher among rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. It doesn’t come as a surprise to see individuals with arthritis to live a reduced quality of life versus those who do not have the condition.

Pain and immobility usually hinder sufferers from performing their daily functions such as doing their household chores, engaging in social activities, and working. When they become unable to do these routines, many sufferers succumb to anxiety and even a feeling of hopelessness.

Researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 72 studies involving 13,189 participants with rheumatoid arthritis. They found that 14.8-38.8% of the participants had major depressive disorder.

In addition to depression, sufferers are also thought to be more susceptible to suicidal thoughts. Loss of function is considered to be one of the factors believed to contribute to depression and suicidal behaviors among individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

To achieve pain relief and improved mobility, sufferers usually resort to the use of pain medications. However, the use of these pharmaceutical drugs has often been associated with side effects, including a potential impact on mental health.

In 1999, a case study found that five users of NSAIDs suffered from adverse psychiatric reactions. The participants of the study took the pain medications to ease pain caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and painful neuromuscular conditions.  It was also found that the use of these medications may have increased the risk of moderate to severe depression. Three of the NSAID users experienced paranoia and four had suicidal thoughts.

In addition to the potential mental disorders associated with the use of NSAIDs, these pharmaceutical drugs may cause physical side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding. There has been a widespread scare in these side effects, which has led many arthritis sufferers to consider safer alternatives.

One of the potential safer alternatives to pain medications is glucosamine, which is a naturally-occurring substance in the body. Glucosamine may have the ability to help restore the health of damaged cartilage. It is also safe to use and is believed to be beneficial for overall joint health.

Glucosamine supplements can be bought at local health stores or in just a matter of clicks online. There are those who claim that this natural alternative has helped them achieve pain relief and improved mobility.

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