Difference Between Osteoarthritis And Rheumatoid Arthritis

Jan 20, 2009 in Diseases
by Amy Clark
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 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 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.

RA may be treated with a number of drugs, such as -steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), along with DMARDs or disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, both of which can be prescribed by a qualified physician. Popular examples of such drugs are Enbrel, Methotrexate, Celebrax, Arava, among others. Though these medicines have been known to to produce a favorable outcome, it is also necessary to remember that these meds may have the potential to trigger negative side effects that can worsen rather than treat your overall condition.

Osteoarthritis (OA)

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 Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Familiarizing the symptoms of Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis may help you learn the distinction between these two forms of arthritis.

For example, when two sides of the joint are affected, plus there is a swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation) of the joints, the disease is most likely rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases, the person commonly suffers from some fever, fatigue, and a sensation of stiffness throughout the body for 15min intervals or more. Certain types of vasculitis, a condition which affects the arteries and veins, also have the potential to develop as a consequence of rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have greater potential for a stroke or a heart attack.

Also typical among rheumatoid arthritic sufferers are renal amyloidosis and fibrosis of the lungs. Kidney and lung inflammations may be affected directly or indirectly by rheumatoid arthritis.

Conversely, osteoarthritis does not commonly affect the major organs of your body. In the majority of cases, osteoarthritis only develops as a result of old age.

It is extremely important for arthritic patients to differentiate between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Knowing what type of arthritis affects you will allow you to to obtain the right treatment for your condition. As always, discussing this with a a qualified physician is important for a more definite diagnosis and subsequent treatment. A qualified doctor will prescribe the necessary remedy and ultimately point you to the right direction. If you feel some negative effects from using prescribed drugs, you must contact your doctor at once.

About the Author:
To grab a copy of Amy’s Free Arthritis Relief Guide, and to read more articles related to Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, please visit the arthritis website at http://www.ridarthritispain.com .