Millions of men and women over 60 share the same struggle with pain and stiffness in their joints. The ailment can be traced to a number of reasons but it is commonly called Arthritis. Arthritis is characterized by the painful swelling and inflammation of the joints. In the United States alone, it is estimated that there will be nearly 70 million people who will suffer from arthritis by the year 2030.

Cases of arthritis may be mild or severe, short-term or permanent. The medical community has recorded more than 100 types of arthritis but the most familiar form is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis takes place when the cartilage that supports the joints ear out, a process that occurs over a long period. Individuals who workout too much or over-train have increased risk of developing this ailment.

Tramadol is one among a number of medicines designed to treat arthritis pain. Tramadol is a synthetic pain reliever that is used to treat moderate to severe arthritis. It works by binding the receptors of the brain which are responsible for transmitting painful sensations throughout the body. This medicine may bring side effects when used.

Tramadol side effects may include the following:

nausea

constipation

dizziness

headache

drowsiness and vomiting

Medications and herbal products that may interact with Tramadol may include:

warfin

ketoconazole

quinidine

digoxin

St. John's wort

drugs that cause drowsiness (cold medicines, muscle relaxants, drugs for depression and anxiety)

However, these tramadol side effects are minimal and may disappear after use. In fact, Tramadol does not have as much side effects as compared with other pain relieving drugs. In addition, several medical studies show that this medication has a low abuse rate compared to other pain relievers. Before taking Tramadol, patients are advised to inform their doctors of their medical history because this drug is not intended for individuals with certain health ailments. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are encouraged to seek advise from their doctors because this drug may harm the unborn baby or pass through breast milk.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen may also be used to treat arthritis. Some prescription drugs like celecoxib, rofecoxib, and valdecoxib are shown to give effective pain relief. However, these drugs may bring minimal or serious side effects depending on the individuals who use them. Cardiovascular bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, and skin reactions are some of the usual side effects that might be encountered in using pain relievers.

Engaging in healthy diets may prevent the development of arthritis or give arthritic pain relief. With daily consumptions of essential vitamins and minerals, individuals who experience arthritis are supplying the body the components it needs to fight the pain and swelling that causes joint pain. Recent medical studies show that food high in omega-3 fatty acids, a group of polyunsaturated fat is essential in alleviating joint pains caused by arthritis. The best sources of these fats are fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Maintaining healthy food consumptions and having a physically active lifestyle is essential not only in the prevention of arthritis but also improvements in one's overall health.