Unique Original Articles » Osteoarthritis Vs Rheumatoid – What’s the Difference?

Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are the two most common forms of arthritis, and distinguishing one from the other is important.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is more prevalent, afflicting thousands of individuals all over the world. This condition is basically an inflammation of the joints. Through time, the inflammation can extend to your major organs and may progress into a debilitating condition.

Historically, scientific research has attempted to discover the cause of RA, but a definite cause has not been identified. Presently, its is believed that the cause is a genetic factor that predisposes a patient to rheumatoid arthritis. Specific environmental factors are also believed to trigger its symptoms.

RA may be treated with some medications, such as -steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), both of which may be prescribed by your physician. Common examples of such medicines are Methotrexate, Enbrel, Arava, Celebrax, and numerous others. Even though DMARDs and NSAIDs have been known to to produce a favorable outcome, it is still important to consider the fact that these products will in some cases cause negative side effects that can worsen rather than alleviate a patient’s overall condition.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis commonly affects the elderly, because OA results from the deterioration of the joints created by the aging process. In osteoarthritis, the water component of the cartilage increases, whilst its protein component diminishes. Constant stress on the joints, including joint injury or being overweight, can also cause this disease. In addition, such factors as infections to the joint, hormonal disorders, pregnancy, diabetes, for example, can cause osteoarthritis. Treatment can range from prescribed localized injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to joint replacement surgical procedures.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis

Familiarizing the symptoms of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis will help you distinguish between these 2 types of arthritis.

When two sides of the joint are affected, and if there is joint swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation), it is most almost certainly RA. In these cases, the person typically experiences some fever, fatigue, as well as a feeling of stiffness in the body for at least 15 minute intervals or more. Certain types of vasculitis, or a condition which affects the veins and arteries, can also develop as a consequence of RA. Moreover, RA patients have greater potential for heart attack or a stroke.

Also common among RA sufferers are renal amyloidosis and fibrosis of the lungs. Kidney and lung inflammations are direct or indirect targets of RA.

Conversely, OA does not commonly affect the major organs of the human body. In most cases, osteoarthritis only occurs as a result of the aging process.

It is important for arthritis patients to differentiate between these two most common forms of arthritis. Knowing which type of arthritis you suffer from will you lead to to get the right treatment for your condition. Of course, discussing this with a doctor is recommended to get an accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment. A qualified physician will be able to prescribe the appropriate remedy and hence lead you to recovery. If you feel some side effects from the use of prescription medications, contact your doctor right away.
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