How does osteoarthritis differ from rheumatoid arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is indeed characterized as a degenerative joint disease primarily caused by the wear and tear on joints over time, leading to the breakdown of cartilage. This is often related to aging, obesity, repetitive stress on joints, or prior injuries. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is classified as an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This autoimmune response leads to inflammation, pain, and swelling, which can ultimately result in joint deformity and loss of function.

Understanding this distinction between the two conditions is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. While osteoarthritis typically affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple joints throughout the body in a symmetrical pattern, often impacting the hands and feet. Other characteristics like systemic symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis (such as fatigue and fever) also help differentiate the two diseases.