What is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which immune cells mistakenly attack normal body cells in the joints. This causes inflammation and pain in the joints, frequently in the same joint on both sides of the body. In contrast, most damage from osteoarthritis (OA) happens because cartilage deteriorates and becomes frayed. It is often a consequence of the aging process but can also result from an injury such as a sports mishap.

Other differences include:

• OA is much more common than RA, which nonetheless affects more than 2 million Americans, according to the National Institutes of Health.
  
  
• RA usually occurs symmetrically, such as in both hands or both knees. OA may occur on one side (e.g., in one knee).
  
  
• OA affects only the joints. RA can affect other systems in the body, including the lungs, nerves or heart.

What are my treatment options for RA?

Because there is no known cure for RA, your treatment will focus on pain relief and slowing the progression of the disease. Drug treatment may include basic pain relievers such as acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory drugs. Other drugs suppress the malfunctioning immune system. The course of RA is different for each patient, and different drug combinations may provide relief. Medications do not reverse damage already inflicted on the joints but can slow or sometimes stop further damage.