Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid are two of the most prevalent forms of arthritis, and knowing the difference 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.
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)
Osteoarthritis is more common among older people, as OA is caused primarily by joint "wear and tear" triggered by the aging process. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage's water component rises, whereas its protein component diminishes. Persistent stress or use of the joints, like being overweight or contracting joint injury, can also cause this condition. Similarly, certain factors as joint infections, diabetes, pregnancy, hormonal disorders, among others, can bring about osteoarthritis. Treatment can vary from localized injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to surgical joint replacement 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 a distinctive joint inflammation, it is most probably RA/rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases, the patient usually experiences some fatigue, fever, and a feeling of stiffness in the body for fifteen minute intervals or more. Certain types of vasculitis, a condition affecting the veins and arteries, may also develop in consequence to rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have an increased risk for a stroke or a heart attack.
Also widespread in RA sufferers are fibrosis of the lungs and renal amyloidosis. Inflammations of the kidney and the lungs may be affected directly or indirectly by rheumatoid arthritis.
Conversely, OA does not commonly affect the major organs of the human body. In most cases, osteoarthritis only occurs as a consequence of old age.
It is important for arthritis sufferers to distinguish between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Knowing what type of arthritis you suffer from will you lead to to obtain the appropriate treatment for your particular condition. Of course, visiting a doctor is advised for an accurate diagnosis and applicable treatment. Your medical doctor will be able to prescribe the necessary form of treatment and thus help in your recovery. If you feel some side effects from using prescription drugs, contact your doctor right away. - 16083
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.
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)
Osteoarthritis is more common among older people, as OA is caused primarily by joint "wear and tear" triggered by the aging process. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage's water component rises, whereas its protein component diminishes. Persistent stress or use of the joints, like being overweight or contracting joint injury, can also cause this condition. Similarly, certain factors as joint infections, diabetes, pregnancy, hormonal disorders, among others, can bring about osteoarthritis. Treatment can vary from localized injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to surgical joint replacement 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 a distinctive joint inflammation, it is most probably RA/rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases, the patient usually experiences some fatigue, fever, and a feeling of stiffness in the body for fifteen minute intervals or more. Certain types of vasculitis, a condition affecting the veins and arteries, may also develop in consequence to rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have an increased risk for a stroke or a heart attack.
Also widespread in RA sufferers are fibrosis of the lungs and renal amyloidosis. Inflammations of the kidney and the lungs may be affected directly or indirectly by rheumatoid arthritis.
Conversely, OA does not commonly affect the major organs of the human body. In most cases, osteoarthritis only occurs as a consequence of old age.
It is important for arthritis sufferers to distinguish between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Knowing what type of arthritis you suffer from will you lead to to obtain the appropriate treatment for your particular condition. Of course, visiting a doctor is advised for an accurate diagnosis and applicable treatment. Your medical doctor will be able to prescribe the necessary form of treatment and thus help in your recovery. If you feel some side effects from using prescription drugs, contact your doctor right away. - 16083
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 .
