“Inflammatory arthritis” is a broad term for several disorders where an abnormal immune response leads to joint inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis but differs in specific ways. The terms “inflammatory polyarthropathy,” “inflammatory arthritis,” and “rheumatoid arthritis” (RA) are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct. RA is a specific disease, while the other two terms describe a case of arthritis in terms of the number of affected joints and the origin of the disease.
One key difference between osteoarthritis and other forms of arthritis is the gradual development of pain. Unlike inflammatory arthritides, which can cause sudden and severe discomfort, osteoarthritis pain typically builds up over months or years. Joint-stressing activities, like running or prolonged walking, can exacerbate this pain.
Fever in rheumatoid arthritis is a common symptom, indicating inflammation and active disease. Due to the way RA affects the immune system, individuals with RA may be more prone to fevers. Similarly, both RA and peripheral neuropathy can cause discomfort or pain, but the nature and location of these pains can differ.
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