Arthritis and Osteoarthritis: Differences, Symptoms, and Treatment

Arthritis and osteoarthritis are two common joint conditions that can lead to restricted movement and reduced quality of life. Although they are often confused, these conditions have different causes, symptoms, and treatment methods. In this article, we will explore the differences between arthritis and osteoarthritis, as well as their main symptoms and treatment approaches.

Differences Between Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

• Arthritis is a general inflammatory joint disease, often of autoimmune origin. It can affect people of all ages, causing chronic inflammation, pain, and swelling.
• Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease associated with the wear and tear of joint cartilage. It most commonly affects older people and occurs as a result of mechanical joint wear. Unlike arthritis, osteoarthritis develops slowly and rarely causes swelling.

Symptoms of Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Symptoms of Arthritis:

• Pain and swelling in the joints
• Redness and increased temperature in the affected area
• Stiffness, especially after rest
• General deterioration in health (in some cases)

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:

• Joint pain during movement, which decreases at rest
• Crunching in joints during movement
• Restricted joint mobility
• Joint deformity in advanced stages

Treatment Methods

Arthritis Treatment:

1. Medication — includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and, for autoimmune arthritis, immunosuppressants.
2. Physical Therapy — helps reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
3. Diet — adding anti-inflammatory foods like fish, nuts, and vegetables.
4. Surgery — in cases of severe arthritis, joint replacement may be necessary.

Osteoarthritis Treatment:

1. Pain Relievers — help reduce pain sensations.
2. Anti-inflammatory Medications — prescribed to reduce inflammation.
3. Physical Therapy and Exercise — strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve mobility.
4. Hyaluronic Acid Injections — help restore cartilage tissue.
5. Surgery — in advanced stages, joint replacement surgery may be required.

Each condition has specific characteristics that require individualized treatment approaches. Early diagnosis and professional consultation are essential for effectively managing arthritis and osteoarthritis and improving the quality of life.