Travcure MediTourism

We would like to introduce ourselves as one of the most Primer Hospitals management –led institution to provide Facilitation to the Overseas Patients.

Comparing Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

f:id:meditourism:20161021152822j:plain

 

With passing time, many people may experience pain and stiffness in their bodies. Sometimes these people may also feel soreness in their hands, knees or shoulders and find it difficult to move. In some cases, this pain is followed by swelling in the certain region. They are said to be suffering from arthritis. Arthritis may be caused due to inflammation in the tissues lining the joints. Arthritis can affect one or more joints. There are around 100 types of arthritis but the common known are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Difference between RA and OA

  • Rheumatoid arthritis is known as RA and osteoarthritis is known as OA.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that produces inflammatory joint with symptoms throughout the body. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that occurs due to the increased wear and tear on joints.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is the disease that can affect the entire body resulting in morning stiffness and severe fatigue as well as sore joints. Osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative disease and the symptoms will revolve around the joint where the cartilage has been worn away.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis affects about one-tenth as many people as osteoarthritis whereas Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis.
  • In rheumatoid arthritis systemic symptoms are not present whereas on the contrary these systemic symptoms can be seen in osteoarthritis.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis can be treated using NSAIDs, acetaminophen, analgesics and exercises. Osteoarthritis can be treated with NSAIDs, steroids, DMARDs, anti-malarial and corticosteroids.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis can be seen both in men and women. More in men before 50 and more in women after 50 while osteoarthritis affects women more than men.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis onset is after 60 years of age. On the contrary osteoarthritis onset is in the age of 35-45 years of age.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis onset is slow and over the years whereas the osteoarthritis onset is rapid generally within a year.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is less severe when compared to osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is very severe and complex.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis increases pain with the movement while it’s completely reverse with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis decreases pain with the movement.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis usually causes pain or stiffness lasting for more than 30 minutes in the morning or after long rest and lack of activity. Osteoarthritis stiffness tends to get worse with the use throughout the day.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with symmetrical swelling e.g. both hands, both elbows etc. osteoarthritis is associated with asymmetrical swelling i.e. swelling in individual joints that are not part of the pair.

There are many things that can be done about arthritis in order to preserve the joint functions and the mobility in turn enhancing the quality of the life. Learning about the disease and the treatment options, making time for physical activity and maintaining a healthy life-style is essential. Arthritis is a commonly misunderstood disease. Spot the difference between the types of arthritis and keep yourself updated by talking to your doctor about it.

Get more information about arthritis treatment options: https://travcure.com/arthritis-treatment-in-india/