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Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two different types of arthritis that affect the joints of the body. Osteoarthritis is a health condition that impacts the joints of the body, especially in areas like the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints and other tissues in the body. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage. Over time, this inflammation can lead to joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and eventually, deformity and disability. In this article, we will explain the similarities and differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
How is rheumatoid arthritis similar to osteoarthritis?
While there are many differences between the two conditions, there are also some similarities:
- Joint pain and stiffness: Both conditions can cause joint pain and stiffness, which can be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Reduced range of motion: Both conditions can cause a reduced range of motion in the affected joints, making it difficult to move or use the joint normally.
- Joint damage: Over time, both conditions can lead to joint damage, including cartilage loss and bone damage.
- Chronic conditions: Both conditions are chronic conditions, meaning that they can last for a long time and may require ongoing management.
What is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?
Evidence shows that both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis involve joint pain and stiffness, they are different conditions with different causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Some key differences between the two:
- Causes: Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning that the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues in and around the joints.
- Symptoms: The symptoms of osteoarthritis typically include pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the affected joint. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis can cause more widespread symptoms, such as fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite, as well as joint pain and stiffness.
- Joint involvement: Osteoarthritis typically affects weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees, as well as joints in the hands and spine. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including those in the hands, feet, wrists, elbows, and shoulders.
- Onset: Osteoarthritis usually develops gradually over time, whereas rheumatoid arthritis can come on suddenly and progress quickly.
- Treatment: Treatment for osteoarthritis often involves lifestyle changes, pain management, and physical therapy. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is typically treated with medications that help to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the disease.
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