Rheumatoid Arthritis commonly affects the knuckles and the joints that are in close proximity to a person’s hands which includes the base of the fingers. On the other hand, Gouty Arthritis usually occurs in the large toe. Other parts that can be affected by Gouty Arthritis include the ankles, heels, knees, wrists, fingers and the elbows. Men between the ages of 40 & 50 have greater chances than women of being affected with gout because women rarely get this disease before the onset of menopause. Individuals who have undergone an organ transplant are also more vulnerable to gout, whereas Rheumatoid Arthritis occurs more frequently among women than men.
Although anyone can be affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis, it occurs more frequently in women. Although this disease usually starts in middle-aged people it frequently occurs in older people. However, young adults and children sometimes get this disease due to several reasons which can include it being inherited from a parent, environmental factors or the disease can also be caused by Hormones. There is no single conclusive test for Rheumatoid Arthritis because the symptoms are similar to other diseases of the joints. However, the full symptoms are not evident in the beginning because they take time to develop. When experiencing joint pains and swelling, people usually consult their family doctor or a rheumatologist to be diagnosed properly.
The aim of any treatment is to help the patients feel better, eliminate pain, reduce swelling and to remain active because inactivity usually exacerbates the pain and swelling. The treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis involves changes in lifestyles, pain relieving medicines, surgery and regular visits to the doctor. Doctors also advise sufferers on how to exercise and how to handle physical and emotional issues by building their confidence and assuring them that they can handle this crippling disease. People also use other alternative therapies to reduce the stress caused by this disease. Anyone suffering from this or any other disease will frequently try out local remedies.
Although these local remedies may not be harmful, it is recommended to discuss it with your doctor before starting anything. Larger joints — such as your elbows, shoulders and knees — often are affected later in the course of the disease. Rheumatoid arthritis typically develops in the same joints on both sides of your body. Signs and symptoms include pain, warmth and swelling of the affected joints, with morning stiffness lasting longer than an hour.
