Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that can cause many symptoms, which include pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue and others. Since there is no cure for RA, treatment is aimed at managing symptoms and reducing disability. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach and involves medication, exercise, joint protection and proper nutrition. Omega 3 fish oils may also help some patients gain control over this disease. However, before adding fish oil into the daily diet, always check with a physician, as taking fish oils may cause side effects in some patients.
Identification
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which means the body attacks itself. For reasons not well understood in the case of RA, the immune system attacks and destroys the lining, bones and cartilage in the joint, states the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. This causes the joint to become inflamed, which can lead to pain, swelling, redness, warmth and joint deformity. The disease progresses differently in each patient, and for some the condition is mild, while for others it becomes disabling. Treatment is aimed at controlling the symptoms and maintaining as much joint range of motion as possible.
Fish Oil Benefits
There are many alternative therapies that have been tried for rheumatoid arthritis, and while more research is needed, taking omega 3 fish oils appears to have some benefit, reports the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Patients who consume high amounts of omega 3 fish oils tend to have less inflammation, which in turn reduces pain and morning stiffness. However, including fish oil in the diet needs to be part of an overall arthritis management program.
Considerations
An article in the Arthritis Foundation's Arthritis Today Magazine suggests talking with a physician about taking between 4,000 to 6,000 mg of fish oil per day. For some RA patients, this amount allows them to reduce the dosage of arthritis medications. It is important to take omega 3 fish oils on a regular basis, because they do not suppress the immune system activity, rather they prevent it from flaring up. Fish oil works by increasing the prostaglandins in the body that prevent inflammation.
Solution
Due to the high dosage needed, it is difficult to get enough fish oil through diet alone, so supplementation is usually necessary. However, since the dosage is so high it should be done under a doctor's supervision. High levels of fish oil can hinder the blood's ability to clot, and it may also raise cholesterol levels. Fish oil can also negatively interact with other medications being taken. For most RA patients, omega 3 oils need to be taken for at least 12 weeks before results are seen, and a high dose can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, gas and fishy-smelling breath. Lower doses can be used, or there are liquid forms that can be mixed into foods, which may be better tolerated.
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