Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is more prevalent, afflicting numerous people across the globe. Rheumatoid Arthritis is chiefly an inflammatory condition affecting the tissue of the joints. After a while, the inflammation can extend to the major organs of the human body and may even progress into a debilitating condition.
In the past, medical research has tried to discover the cause of this condition, but the specific cause has not been identified. At present, it is speculated that the cause is a genetic factor which predisposes a patient to this disease. Certain environmental factors are also deemed 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 is more common among older people, as OA is caused primarily by joint “wear and tear” triggered by the aging process. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage’s water component rises, whereas its protein component diminishes.
Persistent stress or use of the joints, like being overweight or contracting joint injury, can also cause this condition. Similarly, certain factors as joint infections, diabetes, pregnancy, hormonal disorders, among others, can bring about osteoarthritis. Treatment can vary from localized injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to surgical joint replacement procedures.
Signs & Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis
Knowing the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis may help you learn the distinction between these two forms 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 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.
On the other hand, osteoarthritis does not affect your body’s major organs. In the majority of cases, OA only develops as a consequence of old age.
It is imperative for arthritic patients to distinguish between these two most common types of arthritis. Knowing which type of arthritis you suffer from will allow you to to get the right treatment for your condition. As always, discussing this with a a qualified physician is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and ensuing treatment. Your physician has the ability to prescribe the appropriate therapy and therefore lead you to recovery. If you feel some side effects from using prescription drugs, contact your doctor at once.
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