Arthritis is a common condition characterized by joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The two most prevalent types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage — the hard, slippery tissue covering the ends of bones in a joint. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease causing inflammation in various body parts, especially the joints.
Joint stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis is generally more severe in the mornings or after periods of inactivity. It’s also accompanied by fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. This condition often starts in smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet, and can progress to larger joints like the wrists and knees.
Mayo Clinic provides detailed insights into the symptoms and causes of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is further explored on their site, offering an in-depth look at this specific autoimmune condition.
Osteoarthritis, the most widespread form of arthritis, occurs due to the wearing down of protective cartilage in joints over time. It commonly affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which can worsen rapidly over weeks or months, osteoarthritis typically develops more gradually.
While both conditions can affect the hands, osteoarthritis uniquely impacts the joint near the fingertips. Despite similar symptoms, healthcare providers can distinguish between these two types of arthritis through careful evaluation.
WebMD discusses the differences between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, emphasizing their distinct pathologies. In osteoarthritis, the smooth cartilage surface wears out, usually starting in an isolated joint. Rheumatoid arthritis, as an autoimmune disease, involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the body, specifically targeting the synovial membrane that protects the joints.
For more detailed comparisons, Verywell Health and University of Michigan Health offer comprehensive guides on the key differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
