NAN-HG-6
Rheumatism
By Bushrah Yusuf-Badmus
Ilorin, Sept. 21, 2016 (NAN) A medical expert, Dr Ayobami Olanrewaju, has said that women were more prone to rheumatism than men because they have two X chromosomes.
Olanrewaju told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Ilorin that there was a genetic association between X chromosomes and rheumatism.
He said men were at lower risk compared with women because they have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome.
He explained that though women were more prone to rheumatism than men because of their X chromosomes, early diagnosis in either of them
would be very helpful.
He said “those who have it in their family history should go for early diagnosis before the pain and swelling starts developing into muscles
and joints.
“If this is known, the doctor can make a customised preventive plan as per physical therapy, as well as plan the sufferers’ diet and medications.”
He, however, advised those that had already been diagnosed with rheumatism to engage in regular exercise and healthy nutrition.
“People with rheumatism should engage in light training which should be done at least four times a week and regular daily walks
for about 30 to 60 minutes to keep the disorder at bay.
“Also, weight should be within normal range, over weight or under weight can be risky but excess weight can cause stress in the bone.
“Engaging in natural therapies can also be useful like making use of steam bath or heat packs on the affected areas and hot water tub which
helps to relax muscles and joints,” Olanrewaju said. (NAN )
BAY/KM/HA
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(Edited by Kabir Muhammad/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu)