Difference Between Osteoarthritis And Rheumatoid Arthritis
by Amy Clark
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid are two of the most prevalent forms of arthritis, and knowing the difference between the two is important.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is more prevalent, afflicting a myriad of people all over the world. Rheumatoid is basically an inflammatory condition that affects the joints. Through time, the inflammation can gradually affect the major organs of the human body and may progress into a debilitating disease.
In recent years, scientists have attempted to document the cause of rheumatoid arthritis, but the definite cause has yet to be identified. At present, the cause is presumed to be a genetic factor that predisposes a person to RA. Certain events are also deemed to trigger 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.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
OA commonly affects older people, since this condition is caused by the deterioration of the joints brought about by age. In osteoarthritis, the water component of the cartilage increases, while its protein component is lessened. Persistent stress or use of the joints, like getting joint injury or gaining weight, may also cause this disease. Likewise, certain factors as infections to the joint, diabetes, hormonal disorders, pregnancy, to name a few, can set off osteoarthritis. Methods for treatment can range from prescribed local injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to joint replacement surgical procedures.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis
Knowing the symptoms of OA & RA may help you learn the distinction between these 2 forms of arthritis.
When both sides of the joint are affected, plus there is joint swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation), the disease is most almost certainly RA/rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases, the individual commonly experiences some fatigue, fever, plus a feeling of stiffness throughout the entire body that lasts for fifteen minute intervals or more. Some types of vasculitis, or a condition which affects the veins and arteries, also have the potential to develop in response to rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, RA sufferers have an increased risk for heart attack or a stroke.
Also typical among rheumatoid arthritic sufferers are renal amyloidosis and fibrosis of the lungs. Inflammations of the lungs and the kidney may be affected directly or indirectly due to 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.
About the Author:
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