Symptoms of osteoarthritis are frequently treated with nonsteroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), but chronic use of these drugs can cause serious damage to the gastrointestinal (GI) system. An abundance of literature clearly delineates the causative role of these medications in triggering dyspepsia, ulcers, lesions, and other problems.1-5 Increased permeability and inflammation are also associated with chronic NSAID use.6

Once the intestinal mucosa is damaged, bacteria, toxins, and allergens normally prevented from penetrating the GI system can permeate into the bloodstream, where they are carried into all parts of the body, both triggering and exacerbating symptoms.

One study of osteoarthritis patients taking NSAIDS found that over 50% exhibited at least one type of gastroduodenal damage.7 Another study found an even higher rate--68%--and concluded that "fairly severe gastroduodenal injury occurs in asymptomatic patients with rheumatoid and osteoarthritis"8. Most importantly, these researchers also noted that symptoms do not necessarily predict the degree of GI tract damage.

I have personally used Permeability Factors and LG Zyme to heal my own gut permeability. What a difference it made in reducing the pain!

Because endoscopy is a costly and invasive procedure, clinicians have recommended using non-invasive Intestinal Permeability Assessment to first identify patients who may benefit from further analysis, as well as to monitor response to treatment.9

The Intestinal Permeability Assessment is a non-invasive lactulose-mannitol challenge that provides crucial information about the integrity of the intestinal mucosa.

The Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis provides an in-depth look at digestive function, microbial balance, absorption, immunology and other parameters of gut health that can be impacted by the etiology and treatment of osteoarthritis.

References
1 Cryer B, Kimmey MB. Gastrointestinal side effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Am J Med 1998;105(1B):20S-30S.

2 Price AH, Fletcher M. Mechanisms of NSAID-induced gastroenteropathy. Drugs 1990;40 Suppl 5:1-11.

3 Zalev AH, Gardiner GW, Warren RE. NSAID injury to the small intestine. Abdom Imaging 1998;23(1):40-4.

4 Hirschowitz BI. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and the gastrointestinal tract. Gastroenterologist 1994;2(3):207-23.

5 Wallace JL. The 1994 Merck Frosst Award.
Mechanisms of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) induced gastrointestinal damageÑpotential for development of gastrointestinal tract safe NSAIDs. Can
J Physiol Pharmacol 1994;72(12):1493-8.

6 Aabakken L. Review article: non-steroidal,
anti-inflammatory drugs--the extending scope of gastrointestinal side effects. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 1992;6(2):143-62.

7 Fuller R, Hirose-Pastor E, Levy M, Zaterka S, Massuda HB, Eisig JN, Yoshinari NH. Gastrointestinal damage in osteoarthritis patients [Portugese]. Rev Hosp Clin Fc
Med Sao Paulo 1997;52(2):47-50.

8 Larkai EN, Smith JL, Lidsky MD, Graham DY.
Gastroduodenal mucosa and dyspeptic symptoms in arthritic patiens during chronic nonsteroidal and anti-inflammatory drug use. Am J Gastroenterol 1987;82(11):1153-8.

9 Davies NM. Review article: non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drug-induced gastrointestinal
permeability. Aliment Pharmacol Ther
1998;12(4):303-20.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealth institute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.