Arthritis is a common condition that primarily causes joint pain and stiffness, which usually worsen with age. The leading types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis results in the deterioration of cartilage, the hard, slippery tissue at the ends of bones where they form a joint. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an inflammatory disorder that extends beyond the joints, potentially affecting the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. It is characterized by fluctuating severity, with periods of increased symptoms known as flares.
The symptoms of arthritis are evident in the inflammation or degeneration of joints, leading to pain during joint activity. Commonly affected areas include the feet, hands, wrists, and knees. Osteoarthritis develops gradually and tends to exacerbate over time, possibly resulting in chronic pain. It can impede daily activities due to joint pain and stiffness.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) differs as it is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease, with the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy cells, causing inflammation in the joints and other parts of the body. RA often affects multiple joints simultaneously and is prone to affect the hands, wrists, and knees. Persistent joint pain, tenderness, swelling, or stiffness that lasts six weeks or longer, and morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, are indicators of RA.
Despite these commonalities, the clinical course of rheumatoid arthritis is unpredictable. Some patients, particularly those who are seronegative, may experience a spontaneous remission within the first six months of symptoms. However, complications such as recurrent bacterial infections and chronic refractory leg ulcers can occur.
For more in-depth information, readers can visit the Mayo Clinic’s arthritis page, Mayo Clinic’s rheumatoid arthritis page, Cleveland Clinic’s arthritis resource, Mayo Clinic’s osteoarthritis guide, Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center’s RA symptoms overview, CDC’s RA information, and Arthritis Foundation’s RA page for detailed discussions on the symptoms, causes, and treatment of arthritis.
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