Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA) are the two most prevalent types of arthritis, and differentiating 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 recent years, scientists have attempted to document the cause of RA, but the specific cause has not been discovered. At present, it is assumed that the cause is a genetic factor which predisposes an individual to this disease. Specific environmental factors are also deemed to set off its symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may be treated with different drugs, such as NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs or DMARDs, both of which can be prescribed by a qualified physician. Popular examples of such medications are Methotrexate, Enbrel, Arava, Celebrax, to name a few. While these drugs have been known to actually work, it is also important to bear in mind that these products will in some cases trigger adverse side effects that can worsen rather than cure an individual's overall condition.
Osteoarthritis
OA is more common among older patients, since osteoarthritis is the result of joint "wear and tear" brought about by the aging process. In OA, the water component of the cartilage rises, whereas the protein component diminishes. Constant joint stress, such as being overweight or getting joint injury, may also cause this condition. Additionally, such factors as infections of the joint, hormonal disorders, diabetes, pregnancy, to name a few, can bring about osteoarthritis. Treatment may range from localized injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to joint replacement surgeries.
Signs and Symptoms of RA and OA
Knowing the symptoms of OA & RA may help you learn the distinction between these 2 forms of arthritis.
For instance, if two sides of the joint are affected, plus there is joint swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation), it is most likely RA/rheumatoid arthritis. In such cases, the person typically experiences some fever, fatigue, plus a stiffness in the body for 15 minute intervals or more. Some manifestations of vasculitis, a condition affecting the arteries and veins, can also develop in response to RA. Moreover, rheumatoid arthritis patients have an increased risk for a stroke or a heart attack.
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.
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 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. - 15437
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, scientists have attempted to document the cause of RA, but the specific cause has not been discovered. At present, it is assumed that the cause is a genetic factor which predisposes an individual to this disease. Specific environmental factors are also deemed to set off its symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may be treated with different drugs, such as NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs or DMARDs, both of which can be prescribed by a qualified physician. Popular examples of such medications are Methotrexate, Enbrel, Arava, Celebrax, to name a few. While these drugs have been known to actually work, it is also important to bear in mind that these products will in some cases trigger adverse side effects that can worsen rather than cure an individual's overall condition.
Osteoarthritis
OA is more common among older patients, since osteoarthritis is the result of joint "wear and tear" brought about by the aging process. In OA, the water component of the cartilage rises, whereas the protein component diminishes. Constant joint stress, such as being overweight or getting joint injury, may also cause this condition. Additionally, such factors as infections of the joint, hormonal disorders, diabetes, pregnancy, to name a few, can bring about osteoarthritis. Treatment may range from localized injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to joint replacement surgeries.
Signs and Symptoms of RA and OA
Knowing the symptoms of OA & RA may help you learn the distinction between these 2 forms of arthritis.
For instance, if two sides of the joint are affected, plus there is joint swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation), it is most likely RA/rheumatoid arthritis. In such cases, the person typically experiences some fever, fatigue, plus a stiffness in the body for 15 minute intervals or more. Some manifestations of vasculitis, a condition affecting the arteries and veins, can also develop in response to RA. Moreover, rheumatoid arthritis patients have an increased risk for a stroke or a heart attack.
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.
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 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. - 15437
About the Author:
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