Gout vs Rheumatoid Arthritis: What're the differences?

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 (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.

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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.

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

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

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.