The Advantages of Using Banana Peel

1. Banana Peel on Mosquito Bites : One of the best and effective uses of banana peel is to rub or apply it on mosquito bite. Once applied..., you will see that, it reduces the itching, irritation and swelling. It works better than the other medications or creams available in a drugstore.

2. Skin Treatments : Allergic to food? Well, what you can do is - rub the banana peel on the affected part of the body and allow it to slightly dry, then wash it off. You can use banana peel to treat skin condition such as acne. Rub or massage the inner portion of the banana peel into the affected area. You can apply it during night and the result can be seen within few days of application. It will not only soothe your skin but reduce the acne outbreaks as well.

3. Aids to Treatment of Wounds and Bruises : Rub the banana peel on the wound or bruises. Banana peel helps the wound and bruises to dry faster and also, prevents unwanted scar marks. Banana peel can speed up the natural healing process.

4. Aids to Treatment of Poison Ivy Rashes : Banana peel can soothe and reduce the itching and inflammation of the skin. Rub the inner portion of the banana peel on the affected area. Repeat the process as needed. This will help to reduce the outbreak of rashes and stop itching.

5. Aids to Treatment of Psoriasis : Psoriasis is the most common skin ailment. It is a skin condition that causes rough and scaly patches of skin. Those who suffer from psoriasis of the skin experiences inflammed lesions that cannot be treated with ordinary standard moisturizers, oils and creams or ointments. The inner portion of the banana peel has been used to treat such skin conditions and inflammations. Rub the banana peel on the affected part of the skin, you will see the results within few days and weeks. Rubbing the inside of the banana peel on the affected area for once or twice per day may help relieve and eliminate the symptoms of psoriasis and restore the skin back to its natural healthy state.

6. Aids to Treatment of Warts : Rub or massage the inner portion of the banana peel on wart affected area for about a week and notice the result. Banana peel can provide you relief and soothe the skin irritaion. The peels can be directly placed on warts and help speed up the process of healing and skin regeneration process. You can wrap tape around it for better results. This treatment has shown postive result for treating of planter's wart.

7. Banana Peels for Wrinkles : As we are already aware that banana peel contains many essential nutrients and minerals that can help to restore healthy normal skin. Apply across your forehead or sides of the cheeks to tighten up your skin. This treatment is also effective to reduce fine lines

A HEALTHY DRINK FOR BREAKFAST

CURES FOR HEADACHE

Tip 1 
SOAK YOUR FEET IN A BOWL OF HOT WATER LACED WITH MUSTARD POWDER. WORKS BEST FOR VASCULAR HEADACHES.

TIP 2 

Use simple aromatheraphy healing by placing peppermint directly under your nose.

Tip 3 

Acupressure 101: Squeeze your "HOKU POINT" which is the webbing where thumb and index finger meet with your other thumb and index finger for one minute.

Tip 4 

Make your own homemade Ginger Tea. Grate fresh ginger and add to cup of hot water. Steep 4 - 5 minutes.

Tip 5 

Get some Tiger Balm from your local Asian Market and apply on your temples and back of your neck to relieve tight muscles.

Tip 6 

For Tension Headaches wet washcloth with hot water, wring it and place on forehead. For migraines do the same but with cold water.

Tip 7 

One of the most common headache causes is dehydration. So, be sure ti drink lots of fluids.

A DETOX DRINK TO TRY from RawforBeauty

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

Red Cabbage vs White Cabbage

Health Benefits of Red Cabbage (vs White Cabbage)

The potential health benefits of red cabbage are truly impressive. Analysis of the nutritional profile of red cabbage reveals that this tasty member of the Brassica family of plants is loaded with a range of health benefiting nutrients and phytochemicals, including vitamin C, anthocyanins, and glucosinolates. Also known as purple cabbage or Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra in the sicentific circles, red cabbage is also packed with vitamin K, although it does not contain quite as much of this heart health boosting nutrient as green cabbage.

In this in-depth article, we take a look at the various nutrients that make red cabbage so good for you, plus provide some interesting facts about the differences in the nutritional value of red cabbage versus white cabbage.

Red cabbage has more vitamin C than white cabbage – or oranges!

So you thought those healthy navel oranges in your fruit bowl are the best dietary source of vitamin C you can reach for? Well, guess what, raw red cabbage contains even more vitamin C than fresh oranges! One ounce (28 grams) of raw red cabbage provides a whopping 27 percent of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin C, while an equal-sized serving of oranges contains 25 percent of the DV for this important nutrient. For the sake of comparison, green cabbage varieties (including white cabbage) contain about 17 percent of the DV per 1 ounce.

Vitamin C is perhaps best known for its immune-boosting properties, but did you know that it can also help keep your skin, bones, and teeth healthy. Most of the health benefits associated with the consumption of vitamin C rich foods, such as cabbage, are believed to be linked to the antioxidant activities of vitamin C, but also its ability to stimulate collagen synthesis is thought to play a role.

Tip: To maximize the health benefits of red or white cabbage derived from their high vitamin C content, make sure your meal also contains some foods that provide vitamin E as these two vitamins work best synergistically.

Red cabbage contains the same 'super antioxidant' as aronia berries

Unlike green and white cabbage varieties, red cabbage contains anthocyanins, the same red flavonoid pigments that are responsible for many of the famous health benefits of aronia berries (chokeberries), blue honeyberries, and many other blue, red, and purple berries and fruits. Using oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) as a measure, a team of scientists from the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging have shown that anthocyanins have extremely strong antioxidant properties in vitro, even stronger than Trolox which is a vitamin E analogue.

Numerous studies suggest that antioxidants help protect your body from the effects of free radicals, unstable atoms that promote the development of many degenerative diseases and pre-mature aging of the skin. People who are frequently exposed to things like pollution, drugs, cigarette smoke, toxic wastes, stress, and UV radiation are likely to have higher levels of free radicals in their bodies.

One study assessing the effects of anthocyanins was carried out specifically to assess the health benefits of red cabbage anthocyanins and purple sweet potato anthocyanins in rats with colorectal cancer. This study, which was published in The Journal of Toxicological Sciences in February 2002, found that both sweet potato and red cabbage anthocyanins had anti-cancer effects under the experimental conditions used in this study.

Red cabbage contains more glucosinolates than its white counterpart

Also several epidemiological studies (studies that compare groups of people) have found a link between a high consumption of Brassica vegetables, such as cabbage, and a reduced risk of certain types of cancer. In case of red cabbage, some of its potential cancer-fighting effects can be attributed to the anthocyanins it contains; however, also the glucosinolates it delivers are thought to provide significant benefits. Glucosinolates, present in almost all Brassica vegetables, are pre-cursors to biologically active isothiocyanates which have been shown to destroy carcinogenic substances and to hinder cancer cell proliferation.

Interestingly, however, there seems to be significant differences in the glucosinolate content of different Brassica vegetables. In 2010, an intriguing study comparing the glucosinolate content of 11 Brassica oleracea crops (consisting of 42 cultivars) was published in Acta Horticulturae. This study reported that the total glucosinolate content varied from 14 to 625 μmol/100 g (fresh weight, or FW) among the tested Brassicas.

White cabbage was shown to contain high levels of glucosinolates, much higher than many other Brassica vegetables, but red cabbage had even higher levels! The total level of glucosinolates in red cabbage ranged from 140 to 381 μmol/100 g FW, while the glucosinolate content of white cabbage was in the range 127 to 241 μmol/100 g FW.

Green cabbage is the vitamin K champion

Red cabbage is also loaded with vitamin K, although it does not beat the green cabbage, the vitamin K champion. According to USDA's Nutrition Facts data, 1 ounce of raw red cabbage provides provides your body with about 13% of the Daily Value for vitamin K. By way of comparison, eating just one ounce of green cabbage will supply your body with a whopping 27% of the Daily Value for vitamin K.

Vitamin K is best known for its role in blood coagulation, but emerging research suggests it may also be one of the best vitamins for cardiovascular health and bone health: Vitamin K helps direct calcium into the bone, thereby reducing the risk of calcium build-up in blood vessels.

Source: http://www.healwithfood.org/health-benefits/red-cabbage-vs-white.php#ixzz3zWoaBS1t

Licuado de Melón, Piña y Miel para Bajar de Peso y Estar en Forma

Licuado de melón, piña y miel para bajar de peso y estar en forma

Es un licuado acelerador del metabolismo. Un delicioso licuado para bajar de peso que ayuda a quemar grasas más rápidamente, gracias a las propiedades desintoxicantes de sus componentes.

prehiSPAnic cocoon Detox de Piña, Melon Y Miel

1 taza de piña en trozos

1 taza de melon en trozos

1 cucharada de miel

1 cup de agua mineral

Licua todo junto. Se toma en ayunas tres veces al día por tres días.

RECIPE IN ENGLISH

prehiSPAnic cocoon Pinapple Cantaloupe N Honey Detox

1 cup chunked pineapple

1 cup cantaloupe, diced

1 tablespoon honey

1 cup mineral water

Blend together and drink before each meal for three days.

prehiSPAnic cocoon Smoothie de Banana y Mantequilla de Maní

Licuado de Banana y Mantequilla de Maní

Aunque no lo creas, es muy bueno y ayuda a quemar grasas con mayor rapidez, además, su sabor es delicioso. Este licuado puede reemplazar tus antojos de una manera saludable.

prehiSPAnic cocoon Smoothie de Banana y Mantequilla de Maní

1 plátano

1 cucharada de mantequilla de Mani

1 taza de leche

Mezclar todo en la licuadora.

Este licuado se puede tomar para el desayuno o para el almuerzo.

Cucumber and Tomato Smoothie for Weight Loss

Cucumber and Tomato Smoothie for Weight Loss
It is an antioxidant, because it is high in vitamin C, B1, B6, and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, potassium, etc. It is one of the smoothies for weight loss because it is a diuretic.

Cucumber and Tomato Smoothie for Weight Loss
Ingredients
1 cucumber with skin
1 tomato with skin
1 cup of mineral water
1/2 of a lemon

Preparation
To prepare this drink first wash all the ingredients properly and then cut into small pieces and mix in a blender.

This drink should be taken on an empty stomach at breakfast, another glass before lunch and another before dinner.

TRY THIS SMOOTHIE AND BE HEALTHY

Lime and Coconut Green Smoothie
BY GINA MARIE
Ingredients

Juice of 1 lime
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup coconut water
1/2 frozen banana
2 cups of spinach
Ice (if you like your smoothie a little thicker)
Instructions

Juice your lime and measure out all of your other ingredients.
Layer them together in your blender and blend until smooth.
Garnish your glass with a little extra lime if you so desire.
Bottoms up.

10 Easy Tips to Live By BY JAMIE OLIVER

1. 1. COOK FROM SCRATCH

2. This is one of the most important life skills you can learn. It allows you to have complete control of what goes into your food.
3. 2. EAT A BALANCED DIET
4. Aim to eat a balanced diet that contains each of the food groups in the correct proportions.

5. 3. VARIETY IS KEY – EAT THE RAINBOW

   Fill your diet with a wide range of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, eggs, pulses, nuts, seeds, wholegrains and naturally low fat dairy foods. When it comes to fruit and veg, different colours provide your body with the different nutrients it needs to stay strong and healthy – it's not just greens that are good for you!

6. 4. UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU'RE EATING

   Make an effort to learn about the food you're eating – we all need to understand where food comes from and how it affects our bodies.

7. 5. EAT NUTRITIOUS CALORIES

   Make sure the majority of your energy intake comes from nutritious calories that also provide your body with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, protein, fibre and good fats. Avoid empty calories.

8. 6. DON'T SKIP BREAKFAST

   Breakfast kick-starts your metabolism and helps you to be alert and awake throughout the day. Make sure you always eat a nutritious breakfast. Make it wholesome and make it count.

9. 7. READ THE SMALL PRINT

   It's important to read packaging correctly. Be aware of the recommended portion sizes, and the sugar, salt and saturated fat contents. Remember that not all E-numbers are bad, but too many is often a bad sign.

10. 8. DRINK MORE WATER

    Water is an essential part of your diet. Drink plenty of water and avoid empty calories from things such as fizzy drinks, energy drinks or juices with added sugar. Eat your calories don't drink them.

11. 9. KEEP ACTIVE

    Exercise is an extremely important factor in staying healthy so try to be as active as you can.

12. 10. SLEEP WELL

    Make sure you get enough sleep – it's an essential part of being healthy and directly affects how well we are able to learn, grow and act in life. While we're asleep, our bodies have that all-important time to repair.

HOW TO LOOSE WEIGHT WITHOUT THE JUNK FOOD

We are always craving something salty or sweet. Whether it is cookies, chocolates, candies, popcorn, chips or crisps. It is the evil that weight watchers know. It is the evil that helps us to gain weight!!! So how can we STOP EATING JUNK FOOD?

THERE IS ONE SIMPLE WAY TO STOP EATING THESE HORRIBLE WEIGHT GAINER!!!

DO NOT BUY THEM AND STOCK THEM IN YOUR HOUSE!!! IF YOU DO NOT HAVE IT,YOU CANNOT EAT IT!!!! AND DON'T GO TO THE STORE JUST FOR IT!!! KEEP AWAY FROM IT AND STOCK UP ON FRUITS AND VEGGIES!!!!

How to Wash Your Hair—The Right Way

Posted in Hair, Hair care By Wendy Rodewald

You might do it nearly every day, but here’s something surprising: you might not really know how to wash your hair the right way. Using the correct techniques can make a world of difference in your hair’s health, bounce and shine—but if you’re making some common mistakes, you could be damaging your lovely locks without even realizing it. We asked two of New York’s foremost hair pros, hair stylist Nunzio Saviano of Nunzio Saviano Salon in New York and Kyle White, lead colorist at Oscar Blandi Salon, to share their best tips for lathering up—and doing it the right way.

1. Start with a rinse.
Just like your laundry needs a rinse cycle before you add detergent, hair should be thoroughly wet before you add your shampoo. “Hot water will open the cuticle, which is good for removing any dirt or product trapped in the hair,” says White. Another bonus: “When your hair is rinsed in warm water, it loosens the oils through the scalp and opens the cuticle so it is able to absorb the oil” in your conditioner, says Saviano.

2. If you have long hair, condition first.
Yes, really! “If you have hair beneath the shoulders, protect fragile ends from drying out and further damage by running a small amount of conditioner through them and lightly rinsing, before any shampooing. This will not only keep ends healthy, it will fill any holes in the cuticle with moisture, making it smoother and boosting shine,” says White.

3. Lather up — but only at the scalp.
“You only need to shampoo the hair at the scalp, particularly at the nape,” Saviano says.
White agrees. “The best way to lather up is from roots to ends. The hair closest to the scalp is the youngest and will inevitably be the oiliest, while the end of the hair is the oldest and usually driest, most fragile part of the hair.”

Don’t use more shampoo than you need; both Saviano and White say that a quarter-sized amount of shampoo is enough. If your hair is particularly long or thick, go ahead and double that.

4. Be gentle!
Friction can permanently damage your hair’s cuticle, leading to breakage and frizz. Think about washing your hair like you hand wash your delicates — very carefully.

“Start your lather at the roots,” says White. “Increase blood flow to the scalp and stimulate hair growth by using vertical strokes with medium pressure.” Don’t use circular motions, which can tangle your hair.

Next, “Smooth the lather over the ends in a straight stroking motion,” White advises. “Do not scrub the fragile ends or use a back and forth motion like you’re washing a rag on a washboard.”

5. Don’t rinse and repeat.
Despite what the instructions on the back of your shampoo bottle may say, there’s no need to wash your hair twice. “Avoid stripping the hair by doing one shampoo only, which is usually sufficient,” says White. “Unless the hair is extremely dirty and the first shampoo didn’t produce a lather,” in which case, go ahead and lather up one more time.

6. Add conditioner from the mid-lengths to the tips.
After you’ve rinsed out your shampoo, “squeeze some of the water out of the hair before you put in the conditioner,” says Saviano. “Then clip your hair up and finish showering, leaving the conditioner rinse out for the final step of your shower.” The longer the conditioner stays on your hair, the better it absorbs. Don’t put conditioner at the roots of your hair; the natural oil from your scalp is more concentrated there.

7. Finish with a cold water rinse.
“Cold water will shut the cuticle tight, sealing the shingle-like outer layer, which will cause it to reflect the most light and give off the most shine,” says White.

More Hair Washing Tips…

Use a shampoo and conditioner that’s made for your hair type. If your hair is dry, choose moisturizing products. If you color your hair, opt for color-safe formulas. “Volumizing” shampoos tend to leave hair drier, so they’re best for fine hair types that would be weighed down by more moisturizing products.

How often you wash your hair depends on your hair type, too. If you have oily or fine hair, you may need to shampoo daily. Normal or dry hair can lather up closer to three times a week.

Filter your water. White recommends using a shower filter, such as the T3 Source Showerhead, since it “removes rust and minerals from water that can dull color, and deposit on blondes making them dark and muddy.” (We’ve tried it, and it also made our hair super soft.)

Read more: http://dailymakeover.com/how-to-wash-your-hair/#ixzz3xiY6fDrz

Gifts from Mother Nature we can use to combat Inflammation

Take a look at all of the gifts from mother nature we can use to combat inflammation.

Proteolytic Enzymes
Research indicates these enzymes work throughout your entire body to help it fight inflammation… dissolve scar tissue… cleanse and thin the blood… plus even boost cardiovascular, respiratory and immune function.In other words, proteolytic enzymes are the final line of defense against disease, illnesses, pain and everything else that happens inside your body.

And unfortunately with the nutrient-deficient food we’re eating today, the vast majority of adults today have dangerously low levels of these enzymes!

Bromelain
This special natural compound which is extracted from pineapple contains several proteolytic enzymes that have been shown to short-circuit multiple pain pathways in the body.

It has been studied extensively since it’s discovery in 1957 and hundreds of studies have shown it to reduce inflammation, reduce and prevent swelling and remove waste and toxins from the blood.

For example, in one study, 77 patients taking Bromelain experienced significant reduction in pain and swelling.

Turmeric Extract
Turmeric has the unique ability of using its antioxidant powers to seek out and destroy free radicals in the body which contribute to pain and swelling.

A recent study done at the prestigious Sloan-Kettering Cancer Research Center in New York.

In this study they found that Turmeric was more safe and precise than aspirin in stopping inflammation by shutting down the COX2 enzyme responsible for arthritis pain.

And Turmeric caused none of aspirin’s typical gastrointestinal irritation!

Papain
Papain is unique in that it’s been shown to actually attack tumor cells and boost the immune system!

It also contains a wide range of proteolytic enzymes and works by breaking down proteins.

In studies it has been shown to be effective in the treatment of numerous conditions such as diabetes, herpes, cancer and digestion issues like bloating and chronic indigestion.

It’s an enzyme very few people have enough of, yet if they did, would reduce the frequency of a lot of common diseases and disorders!

Devil’s Claw
Numerous studies have proven it’s effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation.

In fact, one study found that Devil’s Claw was as effective in treating arthritis pain as common drug, phenylbutazone… which is so strong it’s even used to treat pain in horses!

There have also been several studies on humans which show that Devil’s Claw is as effective as COX-2 inhibitors… without the deadly side effects!

A series of studies completed in Germany found that the main ingredient in Devil’s Claw was indistinguishable from Vioxx in the treatment of chronic arthritis pain!

Boswellia Extract
One of the most widely used herbs in Indian medicine, it has been used for centuries by traditional Indian healers to reduce arthritis pain and inflammation.

Hundreds of studies have been done proving it’s effectiveness and in addition to being a powerful and safe, natural anti-inflammatory, Boswellia has also been shown to support healthy blood circulation.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study, 30 patients received 333mg, 3x a day of Boswelia.

The group who received the Boswelia had a significant reduction in pain and swelling and experienced an increase in joint mobility and flexibility as compared to the placebo group.

Vitamin E
This fat-soluble vitamin is an essential nutrient for humans and is known for it’s powerful anti-oxidant properties.

Vitamin E has been shown to be beneficial in numerous situations and conditions such as controlling high blood pressure, maintaining healthy and balanced cholesterol levels and boosting immune system function.

Plus… it has also been shown to improve circulatory conditions, skin health, memory and more.

In short, it benefits virtually your entire body!

Ginger Extract
Used for over 2,500 years in Asia, Ginger has been used to treat nausea and to reduce arthritis pain and inflammation.

It works by decreasing the amount of prostaglandins, which are what cause you to feel arthritis pain. In other words, it does what NSAID’s and prescription arthritis pain meds do, but in the way nature intended it to do so… instead of forcing it and causing side effects!

Rutin
Found naturally in a variety of plants and fruits, this flavanoid has been shown to have a strong anti-inflammatory effect due to it’s powerful anti-oxidant activity.

Reducing your inflammation leads to changes throughout your entire body.

Changes such as … a reduction of arthritis pain… increased circulation and dozens of other health benefits which ramp up your energy!

Citrus Bioflavanoids
Citrus bioflavanoids aid in the absorption of vitamins and act as important anti-oxidants.

They also inhibit collagenase and elastase, the enzymes responsible for the breakdown of connective tissue.

That way your joints and ligaments stay as healthy as when you were a teenager!

In addition to protecting connective tissues, they also protect against free radical damage.

L-glutathione
There are literally over 20,000 research studies available on how glutathione can help your body in everything from cancer prevention to more supple skin.

Glutathione is quite literally THE most important antioxidant in your body.

The benefits of increased glutathione are virtually endless, since glutathione is the antioxidant that controls ALL other antioxidants in your body.

It is the ONLY antioxidant in your body that has the ability to eliminate ALL free radicals, not just specific types!

Mojave Yucca (root)
The Mojave Yucca root has more benefits than you could shake a stick at!

These improvements in your health include migraine relief… decreased blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides…better digestion… reduction of muscle spasms… improved blood circulation… treating various skin conditions… healing wounds… and it even promotes shiny and healthy hair.

HAPPY MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY

Dieta de Los 3 Días con Piña Para Bajar Peso

Dieta de Los 3 Días con Piña Para Bajar hasta 5 kilos en sólo 3 Días:

Día 1:

Desayuno: Dos galletas integrales o una tostada integral y dos rodajas de piña.

Almuerzo: Brócoli cocido, con un filete pequeño de vacuno a la plancha y dos rodajas de piña.

Cena: Lechuga, un trozo de pechuga a la plancha y dos rodajas de piña.

Día 2:

Desayuno: un yogurt natural, dos tostadas integrales y dos rodajas de piña.

Almuerzo: Dos rodajas de piña, doscientos gramos de salmón a la plancha.

Cena: Dos rodajas de piña, una lata de atún en agua con lechuga.

Día 3:

Desayuno: Dos galletas integrales, un café y dos rodajas de piña.

Almuerzo: Verduras al vapor, con una pechuga a la plancha y dos rodajas de piña.

Cena: Crema de verduras las que desees lo más livianas que puedas y dos rodajas de piña.

Los alimentos que contiene esta dieta puedes aliñarlos con aceite de oliva, sal y vinagre.

ESTA DIETA ES 100% SALUDABLE Y MUY EFECTIVA. NO OLVIDES COMPARTIRLO!

GREETINGS FOR 2016

Merry Christmas to All my Readers

It has been over 7 Christmases since I began wring this blog and I would like to take this time to thank everyone who has read my blog over the years. I hope to continue posting information that is of interest for my readers. Thank you for your time and interest!

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!!!

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

Complications of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Think of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and you probably think of the stiff, painful, and inflamed joints that characterize the disease. But what you might not know is that RA complications can occur in many parts of the body. The autoimmune process that wreaks havoc on the joints can also affect the eyes, lungs, skin, heart and blood vessels, and other organs. The medications you take for RA can have unwanted side effects as well. And, dealing with a chronic disease like RA day in and day out may cause emotional distress. Many people with RA suffer from depression.

To manage the complications of rheumatoid arthritis, it’s important to recognize problems early and get appropriate treatment. Here are some potential problems you should be aware of:

Effects on the Skin
One-fifth of people with rheumatoid arthritis develop lumps of tissue called rheumatoid nodules, usually under the skin, particularly on the elbows, forearms, heels, or fingers. The nodules, which may develop gradually or appear suddenly, can be an indication of more severe disease activity. Rheumatoid nodules can also occur in other areas of the body, such as the lungs and heart.
RA-related inflammation of the blood vessels, or vasculitis, can cause changes to the skin and surrounding tissue that can appear as ulcers.

Other types of rashes or skin changes related to RA or medications may be seen in patients. It’s important to alert your doctor regarding any skin rash or sores.

Eye Complications
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the eyes in several ways. Inflammation of the episclera, a thin membrane that covers the sclera, or white of the eye, is a common complication of RA. It is usually mild, but the eye can become red and painful. Scleritis, inflammation of the white of the eye, is more serious and can lead to vision loss.

Having rheumatoid arthritis also puts you at risk of Sjogren’s syndrome, a condition in which the immune system attacks the lacrimal glands, which produce tears. This can cause your eyes to feel gritty and dry. If not treated, dryness can lead to infection and scarring of the conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the eye) and cornea. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, ask your doctor about the need for regular eye exams.

Heart and Blood Vessel Disease
Some people with rheumatoid arthritis have a collection of fluid between the pericardium and the heart itself (called a pericardial effusion), but not all will have clinical symptoms from it. Episodes of pericarditis (inflammation of the membrane that surrounds the heart) usually develop during flares, or periods of heightened disease activity.

Persistent pericarditis can lead to thickening and tightening of the membrane, which can interfere with the heart’s ability to work properly. Lesions similar to rheumatoid nodules can also develop on the heart and affect heart function. Inflammation of the heart muscle itself (myocarditis) is a rare complication.

Systemic inflammation puts people with RA at increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Recent research shows that people with RA have an increased risk of heart attack that is about the same as for people with type 2 diabetes. Having RA also increases risk of stroke.

Inflammation of blood vessels, called vasculitis, is an uncommon but serious complication of rheumatoid arthritis. Vasculitis associated with RA, called rheumatoid vasculitis, more commonly affects the small blood vessels supplying the skin, but it can affect many of the body’s organs, including the eyes, heart, and nerves.
Diseases of the Blood and Blood-Forming Cells
Most people with active RA experience a reduction in red blood cells called anemia. Anemia may cause symptoms such as fatigue, rapid heart beat, shortness of breath, dizziness, leg cramps, and insomnia. Active inflammation may also lead to high levels of blood platelets, while treatment to suppress the immune system may lead to low levels of blood platelets, a condition called thrombocytopenia.

Another possible, but uncommon complication of RA is Felty’s syndrome, a condition in which the spleen is enlarged and the white blood cell count is low in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Having Felty’s syndrome may increase the risk of lymphoma, a cancer of the lymph glands.

Lung Problems
The inflammatory process that affects the lining of the heart can similarly affect the membrane lining the lungs, leading to pleuritis and fluid collection.

Rheumatoid nodules also can form in the lungs. In most cases, the nodules are harmless, but they can lead to problems such as a collapsed lung, coughing up blood, infection, or pleural effusion — the accumulation of fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity. Finally, interstitial lung diseases and pulmonary hypertension can also develop as complications of RA.

RA treatments can affect the lungs, as well. For example, one of the most commonly used RA treatments, methotrexate, can potentially cause lung problems, characterized by shortness of breath, cough, and fever. Symptoms tend to improve when methotrexate is stopped.

Susceptibility to Infection
People with RA are more prone to infections, which may be related to the underlying disease itself or the immune-suppressing medications used to treat it. Studies show that treatment with biologic agents, a relatively new and effective class of RA treatment, may greatly increase the risk of serious infections in people with RA.

Emotional Effects
Living day to day with the pain and limitations of a chronic disease can take a toll on your emotional as well as physical health. One recent study showed that almost 11% of people with RA had moderately severe to severe symptoms of depression. Those who were rated as being more restricted in their normal activities were significantly more likely to have depression. The study also showed that only one in five patients who showed symptoms of depression discussed it with their arthritis doctor.
Protect Yourself From RA Complications
Although you may not think to mention problems like depression, chest pain, or dry eyes to the doctor treating your rheumatoid arthritis, it’s important that you do so. All of these problems can be related to your arthritis. Although different problems may require different doctors and/or different treatments, often a change in arthritis treatment — either to better control the disease or to eliminate the side effects of a certain treatment — can be an important step in managing or resolving all of these problems.