Is it Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis?

Two of the most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. There are specific symptoms and distinguishing characteristics which determine the diagnosis and course of treatment. Rheumatoid arthritis affects three times more women than men. Though it can develop at any age, disease onset usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 50 years old. Osteoarthritis occurs more frequently in males before age 45. After age 55, the disease occurs more frequently in females. Do you know the differences between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?

• Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis: Which is it?

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.

• Guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening Quiz
• Fast Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Test Your Knowledge: Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis, also referred to as degenerative joint disease, DJD, or wear-and-tear arthritis, is the most common form of arthritis and is caused by the breakdown of cartilage in one or more joints. When there is cartilage loss, a joint can become bone-on-bone, which is very painful for the patient. Osteoarthritis predominantly affects the joints, unlike other types of arthritis which also have systemic effects.

• Guide to Osteoarthritis
• Osteoarthritis Screening Quiz
• Fast Facts About Osteoarthritis
• Test Your Knowledge: Osteoarthritis

More Related Resources:

• 10 Things You Should Know About Osteoarthritis
• 10 Things You Should Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms: Predicting the Risk
• How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

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