Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA) are the two most prevalent types of arthritis, and differentiating between the two is important.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is more widespread, affecting a myriad of individuals worldwide. This disease is primarily an inflammation affecting the joints. Through time, the inflammation may affect the major organs of the human body and may even become a debilitating disease.

In recent years, medical research has attempted to uncover the specific cause of this condition, but a definite cause has not been discovered. At present, it is believed that the culprit is a genetic factor which predisposes a person to the condition. Specific events are also believed to trigger its symptoms.

Rheumatoid can be treated with different drugs, such as -steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), along with disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), both of which can be prescribed by your physician. Common examples of such medicines are Methotrexate, Arava, Enbrel, Celebrax, and numerous others. Though these drugs have been known to actually work, it is still crucial to remember that these medications will at times trigger adverse side effects that may aggravate rather than alleviate your overall condition.

Osteoarthritis is more common among the elderly, as osteoarthritis results from the wear and tear of the joints created by the aging process. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage’s water component increases, even as the protein component is reduced. Constant use or stress on the joints, such as getting joint injury or being overweight, may also cause this condition. Similarly, certain factors as joint infections, pregnancy, diabetes, hormonal disorders, among others, can cause OA. Methods for treatment may range from localized injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to joint replacement surgeries.

Knowing the symptoms of OA and RA may help patients differentiate between these two types of arthritis.

For instance, when two sides of the joint are affected, plus there is a distinctive joint inflammation, it is most probably RA. In these cases, the person commonly experiences some fever, fatigue, and a feeling of stiffness in the body that lasts for 15 minute intervals or more. Certain forms of vasculitis, or a condition which affects the arteries and veins, may also develop as a consequence of RA. Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have greater risk for a stroke or a heart attack.

Also widespread in RA patients are renal amyloidosis and fibrosis of the lungs. Inflammations of the kidney and the lungs may be affected directly or indirectly due to rheumatoid arthritis.

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

It is extremely important for you to know the distinction between OA and RA. Knowing what type of arthritis you suffer from will allow you to to get the appropriate treatment for your particular condition. Additionally, discussing this with a doctor is advised for an accurate diagnosis and applicable treatment. Your doctor will be able to prescribe the necessary therapy and thus point you to the right direction. If you notice some adverse effects from the use of prescription medicines, you must contact your doctor right away.