Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common forms of the debilitating disease that causes joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Osteoarthritis affects the cartilage that acts as cushion for the bone. When the surface of cartilage wears down, the bones rub together causing joint pain and limited movement. Rheumatoid arthritis causes the immune system to attack and damage tissues of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis usually begins at a younger age than osteoarthritis.
Ill Feelings
Fatigue, weakness and flu-like symptoms may accompany rheumatoid arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation explains. Some people experience a low-grade fever. Loss of appetite, weight loss, anemia and cold or sweaty hands and feet may occur.
Pain/Stiffness
Joint pain, swelling and redness are common symptoms of arthritis. The disease may flare up and then become inactive. Osteoarthritis causes stiffness or mild pain that happens intermittently or occurs most of the time, according to the National Institute on Aging. Stiffness occurs when the joint hasn't moved in awhile, but the stiffness may go away when the joint is moved. Pain, muscle aches or stiffness may occur from prolonged sitting for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Stiffness often appears in the morning or when sitting for long periods of time. The longer morning stiffness lasts, the more active the disease may become, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
Limited Range of Motion
Damage to cartilage, tendons, ligaments and bone leads to deformity and instability in the joints from rheumatoid arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation explains. Limited range of motion and difficulty in performing daily tasks result. People with rheumatoid arthritis are more susceptible to infection. Osteoarthritis can cause disabilities when the back, knees or hips are affected, according to the National Institute on Aging.
Symptoms among people with osteoarthritis may vary, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. In some cases, it progresses rapidly, but many people find pain and disability occurring gradually over the years. Some people suffer significant pain and find arthritis interferes with their daily lives. Other people with osteoarthritis have mild forms of the disease that cause pain or stiffness occasionally.
Depression and Anxiety
The limited motion and pain experienced on a regular basis can cause depression and anxiety in patients, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. People may feel helpless because they can become limited in the activities they want to perform. Job limitations along with personal and family enjoyment are affected. Arthritis also takes a financial toll on people because of the cost for treatment, which may include therapy and medication, and possible loss of wages because people with arthritis may be denied certain job opportunities.
