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 is more common, afflicting numerous individuals all over the world. This disease is mainly an inflammatory condition affecting the joint tissue. Sooner or later, the inflammation may gradually permeate through the major organs and can become a debilitating condition.
In the past, scientific studies have tried to document the origin of this condition, but the specific cause has yet to be identified. At present, the cause is believed to be a genetic factor which predisposes a person to this condition. Specific situations are also deemed to set off its symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis may be treated with certain drugs, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), both of which can be prescribed by a qualified physician. Examples of such medications are Enbrel, Methotrexate, Celebrax, Arava, among others. Though NSAIDs and DMARDs have been known to actually work, it is still necessary to remember that these meds will at times generate adverse side effects that can worsen rather than treat your condition.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis (OA) is more prevalent among older patients, since osteoarthritis is caused primarily by joint "wear and tear" brought about by age. In OA, the water component of the cartilage rises, as its protein component is lessened. Constant stress on the joints, including gaining weight or contracting joint injury, can also cause this condition. Similarly, such factors as infections to the joint, hormonal disorders, pregnancy, diabetes, among others, can bring about OA. Methods for treatment can vary from prescribed injections of glucocorticoid and hyaluronan to surgical joint replacement procedures.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis
Getting to know the symptoms of OA and RA can help patients learn the distinction between these 2 forms of arthritis.
When two sides of the joint are affected, and if there is joint swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation), it is most likely RA. In such cases, the person typically suffers from some fever, fatigue, as well as a stiffness in the entire body for at least 15min intervals or more. Certain types of vasculitis, or a condition which affects the veins and arteries, also have the potential to develop due to RA. Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have a higher risk of getting a a stroke or a heart attack.
Also prevalent among rheumatoid arthritic sufferers are fibrosis of the lungs and renal amyloidosis. Inflammations of the lungs and the kidney are direct or indirect targets of RA.
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 imperative for you to know the distinction between these two most common forms of arthritis. Knowing which type of arthritis you suffer from will you lead to to obtain the appropriate treatment for your condition. As always, discussing this with a doctor is important to get a more definite diagnosis and ensuing treatment. A qualified medical doctor has the ability to prescribe the appropriate remedy and thus help in your recovery. If you feel some adverse effects from the use of prescription medications, you must contact your doctor immediately.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is more common, afflicting numerous individuals all over the world. This disease is mainly an inflammatory condition affecting the joint tissue. Sooner or later, the inflammation may gradually permeate through the major organs and can become a debilitating condition.
In the past, scientific studies have tried to document the origin of this condition, but the specific cause has yet to be identified. At present, the cause is believed to be a genetic factor which predisposes a person to this condition. Specific situations are also deemed to set off its symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis may be treated with certain drugs, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), both of which can be prescribed by a qualified physician. Examples of such medications are Enbrel, Methotrexate, Celebrax, Arava, among others. Though NSAIDs and DMARDs have been known to actually work, it is still necessary to remember that these meds will at times generate adverse side effects that can worsen rather than treat your condition.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis (OA) is more prevalent among older patients, since osteoarthritis is caused primarily by joint "wear and tear" brought about by age. In OA, the water component of the cartilage rises, as its protein component is lessened. Constant stress on the joints, including gaining weight or contracting joint injury, can also cause this condition. Similarly, such factors as infections to the joint, hormonal disorders, pregnancy, diabetes, among others, can bring about OA. Methods for treatment can vary from prescribed injections of glucocorticoid and hyaluronan to surgical joint replacement procedures.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis
Getting to know the symptoms of OA and RA can help patients learn the distinction between these 2 forms of arthritis.
When two sides of the joint are affected, and if there is joint swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation), it is most likely RA. In such cases, the person typically suffers from some fever, fatigue, as well as a stiffness in the entire body for at least 15min intervals or more. Certain types of vasculitis, or a condition which affects the veins and arteries, also have the potential to develop due to RA. Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have a higher risk of getting a a stroke or a heart attack.
Also prevalent among rheumatoid arthritic sufferers are fibrosis of the lungs and renal amyloidosis. Inflammations of the lungs and the kidney are direct or indirect targets of RA.
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 imperative for you to know the distinction between these two most common forms of arthritis. Knowing which type of arthritis you suffer from will you lead to to obtain the appropriate treatment for your condition. As always, discussing this with a doctor is important to get a more definite diagnosis and ensuing treatment. A qualified medical doctor has the ability to prescribe the appropriate remedy and thus help in your recovery. If you feel some adverse effects from the use of prescription medications, you must contact your doctor immediately.
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 .
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