What is the difference between rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatism and rheumatoid are two common joint diseases, but due to similar names, many people are easily confused. In fact, they differ significantly in their causes, symptoms, treatment, and prognosis. This article will analyze the differences between the two in detail, and attach a structured data comparison table to help readers better understand.
1. Definition and Causes
Rheumatism (rheumatoid arthritis)It usually refers to an autoimmune reaction caused by streptococcal infection. It is more common in teenagers and is associated with infections such as strep throat. AndRheumatoid (rheumatoid arthritis)It is a chronic autoimmune disease with complex causes that may be related to genetic and environmental factors. It is more common in middle-aged and elderly women.
2. Comparison of symptoms
| Features | rheumatoid arthritis | rheumatoid arthritis |
|---|---|---|
| Age of onset | child or teenager | 30-50 years old (mostly women) |
| joint symptoms | Migratory pain in large joints (knee, ankle) | Symmetrical swelling and pain of small joints (fingers, wrists) |
| accompanying symptoms | Fever, carditis (may involve the heart) | Morning stiffness, fatigue, subcutaneous nodules |
| Course of disease | acute, curable | Chronic, progressive exacerbation |
3. Diagnosis and treatment
The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis mainly relies onHistory of streptococcal infectionand antistreptolysin O (ASO) detection, and treatment is mainly antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Rheumatoid arthritis requires a combination ofRheumatoid factor (RF)and imaging examinations, and treatment includes long-term management such as immunosuppressants and biological agents.
| Project | rheumatoid arthritis | rheumatoid arthritis |
|---|---|---|
| critical detection | ASO, C-reactive protein | RF, anti-CCP antibody, X-ray/MRI |
| therapeutic drugs | Penicillin, NSAIDs | Methotrexate, corticosteroids, biologics |
| prognosis | Good, less joint deformity | Requires long-term control and may cause disability |
4. Daily management and prevention
Rheumatoid arthritis patients needPrevent infection, especially respiratory infections; rheumatoid patients need to pay attention tojoint protectionand functional exercise. Both need to avoid cold stimulation and maintain a healthy diet.
Summary:Although rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have similar names, they are essentially different. Rheumatoid arthritis is related to infection and can be cured; rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic immune disease that requires lifelong management. Prompt medical attention and accurate diagnosis are key.
(Note: The data in this article refer to the latest medical guidelines and authoritative literature and are for reference only. Please follow your doctor’s advice for specific diagnosis and treatment.)
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