Osteoarthritis Versus Rheumatoid � What�s the Difference?

Last Updated on Sunday, 23 October 2011 11:00 Written by admin Sunday, 23 October 2011 11:00

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the two most prevalent types of arthritis, and knowing the difference between the two is important.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (abbreviated as RA) is more pervasive, affecting thousands of patients all over the globe. This condition is primarily an inflammation of the joints. Sooner or later, the inflammation may gradually extend to the major organs of the human body and can become a debilitating disease.

In the past, medical studies have attempted to isolate the origin of rheumatoid arthritis, but the specific cause has not been identified. At the moment, its is believed that the cause is a genetic factor which predisposes a patient to the condition. Some environmental factors are also deemed to set off its symptoms.

RA may be treated with some drugs, such as -steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), both of which can be prescribed by a doctor. Common examples of such drugs are Methotrexate, Enbrel, Arava, Celebrax, among others. Though these medications have been known to be effective, it is still crucial to bear in mind that these drugs will at times generate adverse side effects that can impair rather than cure your overall condition.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) generally affects older people, because this condition is the result of joint �wear and tear� brought about by age. In osteoarthritis, the water component of the cartilage is increased, as the protein component decreases. Constant stress on the joints, like gaining weight, can also cause osteoarthritis. In addition, certain factors as infections of the joint, pregnancy, hormonal disorders, diabetes, to name a few, can bring about osteoarthritis. Methods for treatment may range from prescribed local injections of glucocorticoid and hyaluronan to joint replacement surgeries.

Symptoms of RA and OA

The symptoms of RA and OA will help patients differentiate between these 2 types of arthritis.

For instance, if two sides of the joint are affected, and if there is a distinctive joint inflammation, it is most probably RA. In such cases, the person usually experiences some fever, fatigue, as well as a sense of stiffness in the body for 15mins or more. Some forms of vasculitis, or a condition which affects the arteries and veins, may also develop as a consequence of rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, people with this disease have a higher risk of getting a heart attack or a stroke.

Also prevalent in rheumatoid arthritic sufferers are fibrosis of the lungs and renal amyloidosis. Lung and kidney inflammations are direct or indirect targets of rheumatoid arthritis.

Conversely, OA does not target the organs of your body. In the majority of cases, OA only develops as a result of old age.

It is extremely important for arthritic patients to distinguish between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Knowing what type of arthritis you suffer from will you lead to to get the right treatment for your particular condition. Additionally, consulting a doctor is advised to get an accurate diagnosis and ensuing treatment. A qualified doctor will be able to prescribe the necessary remedy and thus help in your recovery. In case of negative effects from taking prescribed drugs, contact your doctor immediately.

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