Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are two of the most common forms of arthritis, and it is important to distinguish one from the other.
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 recent years, medical studies have attempted to uncover the origin of RA, but a definite cause has not been discovered. Presently, the culprit is believed to be a genetic factor which predisposes a person to rheumatoid arthritis. Certain environmental factors are also believed 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 (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 RA and OA
Getting to know the symptoms of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis will help patients differentiate between these two forms of arthritis.
For example, if both sides of the joint are affected, plus there is a distinctive joint inflammation, it is most likely rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases, the person usually suffers from some fatigue, fever, plus a stiffness throughout the entire body for 15 minutes or more. Some types of vasculitis, or a condition which affects the veins and arteries, also have the potential to develop as a consequence of rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have an increased risk for heart attack or a stroke.
Also prevalent among rheumatoid arthritic sufferers are renal amyloidosis and fibrosis of the lungs. Lung and kidney inflammations may be affected directly or indirectly by rheumatoid arthritis.
On the other hand, osteoarthritis would not target the major organs of your body. In most cases, osteoarthritis only occurs as a consequence of the aging process.
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.
