Comparing Osteoarthritis to Rheumatoid Arthritis: Understanding the Differences


 

Usually resulting from the degradation of joint cartilage from extended use, it is often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis.

Management

Treatments concentrate on symptom relief and might call for physical therapy, low-impact exercise, weight control, and anti-inflammatory medications as painkillers.

Rheumatoid arthritis: The autoimmune disorder

Features:

Nature: Mostly affecting the joints, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease wherein the immune system targets the body's tissues incorrectly.

Though it might extend to other joints over time, affected joints usually start small—that of the hands and feet.

Among the symptoms are sore, heated, swollen joints and morning stiffness that could last several hours.

Purposes:

Although the precise origin of RA is uncertain, smoking is one of the environmental elements in conjunction with genetic ones.

Management

Disease-modifying antirheumatic medicines (DMARDs) and biologics are among the pharmaceuticals used to treat RA that delay the condition and stop joint deformities. Moreover helpful in managing symptoms are physical treatment and consistent exercise.

In essence, equip yourself with knowledge.

Though everyday life is affected by both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, effective care depends on knowing their distinctions. See a healthcare professional for a correct diagnosis and treatment advice if you believe you have arthritis. Living with arthritis may still mean live a busy and meaningful life with the correct attitude.