Osteoarthritis vs rheumatoid arthritis symptoms | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Recent questions

• What are the key differences between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?

  Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, while osteoarthritis is caused by overuse, often seen in elderly or overweight individuals. Both share symptoms of joint pain and stiffness, but rheumatoid arthritis shows symmetry in joint pain between both sides of the body, while osteoarthritis is often asymmetrical. Specific joint locations like the DIP and PIP joints are crucial in distinguishing between the two. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are worse in the morning and improve with movement, while osteoarthritis symptoms worsen throughout the day with use. Physical examination findings include warmth and redness in affected joints for rheumatoid arthritis, while osteoarthritis may show joint enlargement without warmth. Osteoarthritis may produce crepitus during joint movement, a sound of bone grinding on bone, which is not typically present in rheumatoid arthritis.

• How do symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis differ throughout the day?

  Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are typically worse in the morning and improve with movement throughout the day. In contrast, symptoms of osteoarthritis worsen with use during the day. This distinction in symptom presentation can help differentiate between the two conditions.

• What are the common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?

  Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis share common symptoms of joint pain and stiffness, leading to weakness and loss of function. These symptoms can potentially cause depression and other health risks. Recognizing these shared symptoms can prompt individuals to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment.

• How can joint locations help distinguish between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?

  Specific joint locations, such as the DIP and PIP joints, play a crucial role in distinguishing between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Understanding the characteristic joint involvement in each condition can aid healthcare providers in making an accurate diagnosis and implementing appropriate management strategies for patients.

• What physical examination findings differentiate rheumatoid arthritis from osteoarthritis?

  Physical examination findings can help differentiate between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. For rheumatoid arthritis, warmth and redness in affected joints are common, while osteoarthritis may show joint enlargement without warmth. Additionally, osteoarthritis may produce crepitus, a sound of bone grinding on bone during joint movement, which is not typically present in rheumatoid arthritis. These distinct physical findings can guide healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing these conditions effectively.