How can people with both fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) know which condition is causing their pain? What factors or characteristics allow the patient to distinguish between the two conditions?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by body aches, widespread pain, sleep problems, extreme fatigue, depression, anxiety, and other symptoms, in combination with tenderness of specific areas (muscles and tender points) on the body. Fibromyalgia is a type of soft tissue or muscular rheumatism and does not cause inflammation, joint damage or deformities.

• Fibromyalgia Screening Quiz
• Test Your Knowledge: Fibromyalgia
• Fibromyalgia 101: Free Newsletter E-Course

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory type of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is also classified as an autoimmune disease (immune cells attack the body's own healthy tissues). The joints are primarily affected by rheumatoid arthritis, but there can be systemic effects (i.e. organs) as well. Early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and early, aggressive treatment can help prevent joint damage and deformity.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening Quiz
• Test Your Knowledge: Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis 101: Free Newsletter E-Course

Is there a best course of treatment for people who have both fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis? We asked rheumatologist Scott J. Zashin, M.D. to explain, Fibromyalgia vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis - What Factors Determine Treatment?

More Related Resources:

• Fast Facts About Fibromyalgia
• 10 Things You Should Know About Fibromyalgia
• Fast Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis
• 10 Things You Should Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis

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