Osteoarthritis Versus Rheumatoid – What’s the Difference?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA) are the two most prevalent types of arthritis, and differentiating between the two is important.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is more pervasive, affecting thousands of patients in the entire world. Rheumatoid Arthritis is chiefly an inflammatory condition that affects the joints. Sooner or later, the inflammation may extend to the major organs and may progress into a debilitating condition.
In the past, medical research has tried to discover the cause of this condition, but the specific cause has not been identified. At present, it is speculated that the cause is a genetic factor which predisposes a patient to this disease. Certain environmental factors are also deemed to set off its symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be treated with certain drugs, such as NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and DMARDs (disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs), both of which can be prescribed by your doctor. Examples of such drugs are Enbrel, Methotrexate, Celebrax, Arava, among others. While these medications have been proven to be effective, it is also imperative to remember that these drugs will at times cause adverse side effects that can exacerbate rather than improve a patient’s overall condition.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) commonly affects older people, for the reason that osteoarthritis is caused primarily by the wear and tear of the joints triggered by the aging process. In OA, the water component of the cartilage is increased, whereas the protein component diminishes. Constant stress or use of the joints, like getting joint injury or gaining weight, can also trigger this condition. In addition, certain factors as infections of the joint, hormonal disorders, diabetes, pregnancy, for example, can set off OA. Treatment methods can vary from prescribed local injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to joint replacement surgeries.
Signs and Symptoms of RA and OA
Knowing the symptoms of OA & RA may help you learn the distinction between these 2 forms of arthritis.
If two sides of the joint are affected, plus there is joint swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation), it is most probably RA. In such cases, the person usually experiences some fever, fatigue, and a sensation of stiffness throughout the entire body for fifteen minutes or more. Some forms of vasculitis, a condition affecting the veins and arteries, may also develop in response to RA. Further, rheumatoid arthritis patients have greater risk for heart attack or a stroke.
Also typical in RA sufferers are fibrosis of the lungs and renal amyloidosis. Kidney and lung inflammations may be affected directly or indirectly by rheumatoid arthritis.
Conversely, OA would not affect the organs of the human body. In the majority of cases, OA only occurs as a result of the aging process.
It is important for arthritis patients to distinguish between these two most common forms of arthritis. Knowing what type of arthritis you suffer from will allow you to to get the right treatment for your specific condition. Additionally, discussing this with a qualified doctor is advised to get an accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Your physician will be able to prescribe the necessary treatment and therefore help in your recovery. If you notice some side effects from taking prescription drugs, you must contact your doctor immediately.
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