Читать книгу Arthritis For Dummies - Barry Fox - Страница 82
Understanding the Difference between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
ОглавлениеRA and OA have two things in common: namely joint pain and damage to certain joint structures, such as the cartilage and the bone. Other than that, they’re about as different as night and day. Table 3-1 outlines the differences between RA and osteoarthritis.
TABLE 3-1 Rheumatoid Arthritis Compared to Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis | Osteoarthritis |
---|---|
Joint inflammation and swelling are prominent symptoms. | Joint inflammation and swelling are less common. |
Usually begins between the ages of 25 to 50, but can also strike children. | Usually begins after the age of 40. Rarely strikes children. |
Settles in a majority of joints, especially fingers, wrists, shoulders, knees, and elbows. | Affects the weight-bearing joints primarily (for example, knees, hips, and spine). |
Affects joints symmetrically (for example, both wrists). | Affects isolated joints or one joint at a time. |
Morning stiffness lasts more than 30 minutes. | Brief periods of morning stiffness. |
Often causes systemic symptoms, such as fatigue, fever, weight loss, and general malaise. In severe cases, they can attack organs outside the joints. | Does not cause systemic symptoms. |