Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and fibromyalgia (FMS) are chronic pain conditions that often coexist, presenting challenges in diagnosis and treatment. While RA is an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation, FMS is primarily a neurological condition, amplifying pain signals. Both conditions share symptoms such as pain, stiffness, fatigue, and decreased mobility, yet they have distinct characteristics.
RA is marked by inflammation in the joints, with pain that can fluctuate in intensity. In contrast, fibromyalgia causes a persistent, dull ache throughout the body, lasting at least three months. Notably, RA is characterized by symptoms like sensitive eyes, while fibromyalgia involves central pain disorder.
Despite these differences, the two conditions are linked by their impact on joint and soft tissues, causing chronic pain. It is important to note that fibromyalgia, unlike RA, is not associated with joint inflammation and damage. However, it is still considered a rheumatic condition. Interestingly, women are significantly more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men.
For more detailed insights, explore these resources:
Verywell Health,
WebMD,
Healthline,
Medical News Today,
Verywell Health,
RheumatoidArthritis.net.
