Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which inflammation plays a major role in causing joint problems. Warmth and swelling in the joints, along with significant stiffness and pain, can make daily life difficult. Many people with rheumatoid arthritis also experience fatigue, low-grade fever, loss of appetite, depression, and muscle aches. In this, the third edition of Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Tammi L. Shlotzhauer describes new findings about causes and treatments, including * New research on risk factors and triggers, including pathologic bacteria in the digestive tract, smoking, and exposure to pollutants and chemicals* Lifestyle and diet modifications that can help avoid potential triggers * How stress contributes to inflammation and other symptoms * Information about new biologic disease-modifying drugs * Promising research on biomarkers that may generate a personalized approach to treatment * Remarkable gains in reducing disability, hospitalizations, and surgeries In addition to explaining the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for people who have rheumatoid arthritis, Dr. Shlotzhauer offers practical strategies for coping with the pain, fatigue, and emotional toll of a chronic illness. She provides new information on associated diseases such as osteoporosis, tips for finding safe and reliable information online, and information on how to get an accurate diagnosis.

The most up-to-date, comprehensive treatment guide to fibromyalgia, by a renowned physician who has the condition   If you suffer from fibromyalgia and are struggling to get help from your doctor, you're far from alone. Ten million Americans experience the widespread muscle pain, profound fatigue, and fuzzy brain ("fibrofog") that have long frustrated both patients and doctors. In this unique resource, Ginevra Liptan, M.D., shares a cutting-edge new approach that goes far beyond mainstream medical knowledge to produce dramatic symptom improvement.   Dr. Liptan's program incorporates clinically proven therapies from both alternative and conventional medicine, along with the latest research on experimental options like medical marijuana. Since many health care providers have limited fibromyalgia expertise, The FibroManual includes a thoroughly sourced "health care provider guide" that enables readers to help their doctors help them.   Alleviate fibromyalgia symptoms in four simple steps (Rest, Repair, Rebalance, and Reduce) and you will   * restore deep, restful sleep * achieve long-lasting pain relief * optimize hormone and energy balance * reduce fatigue   This accessible and empowering resource provides essential information about understanding and treating fibromyalgia from a physician who, as both patient and provider, understands the illness from the inside.