What is the Difference Between Arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms?

The main difference between arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis lies in the cause and symptoms of each condition. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Cause: Osteoarthritis (OA) is caused by mechanical wear and tear on joints, while rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks the joints.
2. Age at which the condition starts: RA can begin at any time in life, while OA usually begins later in life.
3. Speed of onset: RA has a relatively rapid onset, occurring over weeks to months, whereas OA develops slowly over years.
4. Joint symptoms: In RA, joints are painful, swollen, and stiff, while in OA, joints ache and may be tender but have little or no swelling.
5. Systemic symptoms: RA frequently causes fatigue and a general feeling of being ill, while whole-body symptoms are not present in OA.
6. Stiffness: In RA, stiffness tends to return at the end of the day or after periods of activity, while in OA, stiffness is usually worse in the morning.
7. Pattern of joints affected: RA often affects multiple joints simultaneously and in a symmetrical pattern (e.g., both hips), while OA typically affects a single joint or a few joints.

Accurate diagnosis of the type of arthritis is crucial for determining the proper treatment. If you suspect you have arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment recommendations.

Comparative Table: Arthritis vs Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Here is a table comparing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA):

RA is an autoimmune disease, while OA is caused by mechanical wear and tear on joints. RA usually affects the small joints in hands and feet and is characterized by symmetrical joint involvement. In contrast, OA is more likely to affect the joints that are used the most (hands and spine) and weight-bearing joints. RA symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, redness, warmth, restricted range of motion, fatigue, low fevers, anemia, and loss of appetite. In contrast, OA symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, redness, warmth, and restricted range of motion.