Lupus
Marijuana could become a treatment for autoimmune disease, says new study
Marijuana is back under the spotlight as a potential treatment for autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and lupus, thanks to research published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.
One of the most abused drugs, marijuana can also be used for medicinal purposes and has previously been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
We know that the environment in which we live can alter our genes – but little research has been done to establish if the anti-inflammatory properties of marijuana are due to this. Continue reading
Being active at any age helps heart health says new study – and how to exercise with arthritis
Being physically active in old age can help reduce the risk of a heart attack, according to new research published in Circulation.
Scientists studied the function of hearts in people over the age of 65 years. They found that those who remained active, or who boosted the amount of exercise they did, had a lower risk of heart problems. Continue reading
Genetic component to chronic pain, says recent research
An investigation into the causes of chronic pain suggests there are genetic similarities in people who have similar intensities of pain, a finding that could lead to new treatments and future drug development.
Experts asked 2,721 people with chronic pain (that meant they had been prescribed opioid pain medication) to rate the intensity of their pain from 0 to 10: 9% had low pain perception (scored 1–3); 46% had moderate pain perception (scored 4–6); 45% had high pain perception (scored 7–10). Interesting genetic findings were: Continue reading
Nothing is going to break singer Kelle Bryan’s stride, not even lupus, she explains to Iona Walton
Singer Kelle Bryan was at the pinnacle of her pop star career when she was suddenly struck down with lupus. Her band, Eternal had sold over ten million records, notched up numerous awards, toured the world and even performed for Pope Jean Paul II.
But when Kelle was only 23 years old, her flu-like symptoms had become so bad that she was unable to walk. Finally seeking a second opinion, Kelle was told she had lupus in 1998. Continue reading
Is laughter the best medicine? Cartoons could help people cope with chronic conditions
Cartoons could be a beneficial way of educating patients and empowering them to cope better with long term conditions, says research published in Health Services Research.
“Humour is frequently and naturally used by people with chronic illnesses to help them adjust and understand what is happening to them,” explains Associate Professor Dr Anne Kennedy, who led the study. “Our study has shown that cartoons could provide clarity to patients and be a way to engage with them. It is an untapped resource and could be a potential approach to support self-management.” Continue reading
