With increasing lifestyle stress, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis are a few of the common medical disorders. This article aims at educating readers regarding osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic joint condition. As we all are aware, a joint is where two bones come together. A protective tissue covers the ends of these joints, which is called cartilage. In OA condition, the cartilage breaks down, which causes the bones within the joint to rub together.
Though OA is generally found in older people, it can occur in adults of any age. OA can also be called degenerative arthritis, degenerative joint disease, and wear-and-tear arthritis.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis symptoms develop gradually and can include any of the following
- Joint ache and soreness, especially when moving
- Pain after long periods of inactivity
- Stiffness after resting periods
- Bony enlargements in the end and middle joints of the fingers (it may or may not be painful)
- Swelling of joints
Treatment for osteoarthritis
Your treatment depends on your severity of symptoms and their location. There are numerous over-the-counter medications for arthritis pain. It is recommended to consult a doctor before taking any of them. Some of them are aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Best known as autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes joint pain and damage throughout the body. The joint damage caused by RA is usually on both sides of the body.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
Though RA symptoms can affect various organs of the body, joint symptoms include
- Joint swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Joint pain
- Deformities and loss of joint function
Symptoms can be either mild or severe. It is recommended not to ignore your symptoms even if they are not regular.
Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis
There are many medications available for RA. Some of this helps reduce pain and inflammation caused due to RA.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroids
- Acetaminophen
Are you looking out for professional treatment for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Dr. Vidyananad Raut is an MS (Orth), D’Orth, DNB (Orth), and Fellow (Joint Replacement): India, Australia, and the USA. He possesses 14 years of vast experience in the joint replacement field. He has been a key figure in many multi-specialty tertiary hospitals in Mumbai.
Dr. Vidyanand Raut has been selected for reputable fellowships in Australia, the USA, and India. His immense hip and knee replacement surgery experience makes him one of the finest doctors for treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.