Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid are two of the most prevalent forms of arthritis, and knowing the difference between the two is important.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

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 RA, but a specific cause has yet to be identified. Presently, the culprit is believed to be a genetic factor that predisposes an individual to rheumatoid arthritis. Specific events are also deemed to trigger 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)

OA commonly affects the elderly, as osteoarthritis is caused by the deterioration of the joints brought about by age. In OA, the cartilage's water component increases, even as the protein component is lessened. Persistent stress or use of the joints, like gaining weight, may also cause OA. Likewise, certain factors as joint infections, hormonal disorders, pregnancy, diabetes, among others, can set off OA. Methods for treatment may range from prescribed localized injections of glucocorticoid and hyaluronan to surgical joint replacement procedures.

Signs & Symptoms of RA & OA

Familiarizing the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis may help you differentiate between these 2 types of arthritis.

If two sides of the joint are affected, plus there is joint swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation), it is most probably RA. In such cases, the person usually experiences some fever, fatigue, and a sensation of stiffness throughout the entire body for fifteen minutes or more. Some forms of vasculitis, a condition affecting the veins and arteries, may also develop in response to RA. Further, rheumatoid arthritis patients have greater risk for heart attack or a stroke.

Also widespread in RA sufferers are renal amyloidosis and fibrosis of the lungs. Kidney and lung inflammations may be affected directly or indirectly due to rheumatoid arthritis.

Conversely, OA would not affect the organs of the human body. In the majority of cases, OA only occurs as a result of the aging process.

It is imperative for you to differentiate between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Knowing which type of arthritis you suffer from will allow you to to seek the right treatment for your specific condition. Furthermore, discussing this with a a qualified physician is recommended to get a more definite diagnosis and ensuing treatment. Your medical doctor can prescribe the appropriate form of treatment and therefore lead you to recovery. In case of negative effects from the use of prescription medications, you must contact your doctor immediately.