Difference Between Osteoarthritis And Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid are two of the most widespread forms of arthritis, and it is important to differentiate between the two.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is more prevalent, afflicting numerous patients worldwide. This condition is chiefly an inflammation of the joints. Through time, the inflammation can gradually extend to the major organs and may even become a debilitating condition.

In recent years, scientists have attempted to uncover the specific cause of rheumatoid arthritis, but the specific cause has not been discovered. Currently, the cause is assumed to be a genetic factor which predisposes a patient to this disease. Specific environmental factors are also deemed to trigger its symptoms.

Rheumatoid arthritis can be treated with different medications, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), both of which can be prescribed by a qualified physician. Common examples of such medicines are Celebrax, Arava, Enbrel, Methotrexate, to name a few. While these drugs have been proven to be effective, it is still necessary to remember that these products will in some cases generate adverse side effects that may impair rather than alleviate a patients condition.

What is Osteoarthritis?

OA generally affects older patients, because osteoarthritis is caused primarily by the deterioration of the joints created by the aging process. In osteoarthritis, the water component of the cartilage increases, whereas the protein component is reduced. Continuous stress on the joints, including being overweight or getting joint injury, may also cause osteoarthritis. Additionally, such factors as joint infections, diabetes, hormonal disorders, pregnancy, to name a few, can cause osteoarthritis. Treatment can vary from localized injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to surgical joint replacement procedures.

Symptoms of RA & OA

Familiarizing the symptoms of Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis can help patients differentiate between these 2 forms of arthritis.

For example, when both sides of the joint are affected, and if there is a distinctive joint inflammation, it is most likely rheumatoid arthritis. In such cases, the person usually experiences some fever, fatigue, and a sense of stiffness throughout the entire body for at least 15mins or more. Certain forms of vasculitis, or a condition affecting the arteries and veins, can also develop in response to rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, RA patients have greater risk for a stroke or a heart attack.

Also common among RA patients are fibrosis of the lungs and renal amyloidosis. Lung and kidney inflammations may be affected directly or indirectly by RA.

Conversely, osteoarthritis does not affect the major organs of the human body. In the majority of cases, osteoarthritis only develops as a result of the aging process.

It is important for arthritic patients to know the distinction between these two most common forms of arthritis. Knowing what type of arthritis you suffer from will you lead to to seek the right treatment for your particular condition. Additionally, calling a qualified doctor is important for a more definite diagnosis and subsequent treatment. A qualified physician can prescribe the appropriate treatment and therefore lead you to recovery. If you notice some side effects from using prescribed drugs, immediately contact your doctor.