Gout vs Rheumatoid Arthritis: What're the differences?
Gout vs Rheumatoid Arthritis: How are they different
Gout and Rheumatoid Arthritis are two different kinds of arthritis. Both lead to joint inflammation and have more or less the same symptoms, yet the two conditions are unique in many ways. Causes, treatment and even some symptoms of both conditions differ from one another. In this article, we have tried to understand how the two types of arthritis are diverse.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy cells in the synovial tissues or linings of the joints. It leads to inflammation, stiffness, pain and swelling. The symptoms usually occur in hands, wrists, ankles and knees on both sides of the body. If left untreated, the repeated swelling can lead to joint damage. People suffering from RA are even at the risk of developing heart diseases. RA affects more women than men.
Gout
Gout
is another type of arthritis that causes intense pain in the big toe
joint of the foot. In some cases, the condition may also affect the top
of the foot and ankle. Unlike RA, it occasionally attacks other joints
of the body. A person suffers from gout when the level of uric acid in
the blood reaches a dangerous level. Uric acid is produced when purines
(a natural substance found in some foods) are broken down in the body.
Some medications and food can also increase the amount of uric acid in
the blood. The condition is more common in men as compared to women.
Symptoms of RA
In the case of RA, the symptoms at times flare up and then disappear on their own. It is known as flares and remissions. In the beginning, the condition may cause symptoms like:
Fatigue
Fever
Pain or stiffness in multiple joints
Weakness
Weight loss
When the disease progresses it may lead to long-term complications like
Early heart disease
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Type 2 diabetes
Loss of balance
Problems with the lungs, eyes, and other organs
Symptoms of Gout
The symptoms of gout also come and go. When an excess of uric acid crystals accumulate in the joint the person may witness the symptoms more clearly. These symptoms may include:
Reduced range of motion
Swelling
Tenderness
Warmth
Diagnosis and treatment of RA and Gout
Before
starting the treatment process it is crucial to identify the symptoms
of gout and RA. To clear the confusion the doctor will carry out a
physical examination and ask you some questions related to your
condition.
For diagnosis of gout, doctors usually prescribe blood testing to measure the amount of uric acid in the blood.
Rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose in the early stage as the signs mimic many other diseases. The doctor may perform a physical examination to clear the doubt.
After confirmation, patients suffering from gout are prescribed medications and are asked to change their diet and lifestyle habits.
In the case of RA medication can help to manage the condition. Apart from that Occupational therapy (OT), Ongoing monitoring and
surgery are some other options.