Rheumatoid arthritis vs. arthrosis: What's the difference?

Rheumatoid arthritis: symptoms and causes

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis of the hands and feet are most often manifested as follows:

• Pain, swelling and stiffness of the joints (most often in the morning or after prolonged immobility).
• Chronic inflammation that affects the joints symmetrically (e.g. both wrists, both knees).
• Fatigue, weakness and fever.
• Joint deformity and loss of joint function if left untreated.
• Affection of other organs such as the eyes, lungs or heart.

What are some of the causes of rheumatoid arthritis?

• Autoimmune reaction: the body mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation.
• Genetic factors: certain genes can increase the risk of developing RA.
• Hormonal factors: RA affects women more often, suggesting a possible role for hormones.

Arthritis of the joints in the hand or foot, or its symptoms, may appear gradually, which can lead to delaying a visit to the doctor. Even though arthritis in the hand or other parts of the body may seem mild, do not hesitate to consult a specialist, as early treatment can significantly slow the progression of the disease. A doctor is able to not only confirm the diagnosis, but also recommend appropriate treatment to help you manage the symptoms and slow down the disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis: treatment and triggers

The exact cause of RA is not fully understood, but it is thought that genetics, environment and factors such as:

• Infections that can trigger an inflammatory response.
• Poor diet and smoking, which increase the stages of developing the disease.
• Hormonal changes, especially in women.
• Stress, which can contribute to worsening symptoms.

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain and slowing the progression of the disease. Various therapies are available that include:

• Non-steroidal antirheumatic drugs to relieve pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroids to quickly suppress inflammation.
• Disease-modifying drugs to slow the progression of the disease.
• Biological therapy, targeted therapy aimed at specific inflammatory processes in the body.

Treatment for arthritis depends on your individual condition, so it is important to visit ATODA Medical as soon as possible to recommend an appropriate therapy.

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Rheumatoid arthrosis: symptoms and causes

Osteoarthritis usually affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, spine and hands. Inflammation is mild in arthritis and is usually the result of bones rubbing against each other.

If, even after reading this page, you are unsure whether you have a rheumatological condition, seek help from your General practitioner first.

Symptoms of arthritis include:

• Joint pain, especially after physical activity.
• Joint stiffness, which usually lasts only a short time after waking up.
• Reduced joint mobility.
• The sound of cracking or rubbing in the joints.
• Affected joints may be swollen.

Causes of arthrosis:

• Aging: Often arthritis is associated with age, when cartilage naturally wears down.
• Overuse of joints: Excessive stress, obesity or overuse of joints can lead to joint wear.
• Injuries: Older joint injuries can increase the risk of developing arthritis.
• Genetics: some families may have an increased predisposition to arthritis.

Our rheumatology (Prague) and the top-notch doctors serving there will deploy the appropriate treatment, combining pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods to relieve pain, improve joint mobility and slow down degenerative processes. Help us to significantly improve your quality of life and prevent further joint damage.