Gout, along with rheumatoid arthritis, are both classified as types of arthritis, according to UW Medicine Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. Each has its own distinguishing symptoms; however, at onset, the two diseases may appear similar. Due to possible confusion over which disease an individual may have, it is important to undergo tests to ascertain a correct diagnosis and treatment.
Joint Inflammation
Early symptoms of gout that are similar to rheumatoid arthritis consist of redness, swelling, sensitivity and painful inflammation of the joints. Joints may be sore and feel warm to the touch. In general, gout affects only one joint at a time and RA affects many joints at the same time on both sides of the body. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes it is particularly difficult to differentiate between chronic gout and RA in the elderly.
Stiffness
Both diseases manifest with painful stiffness of the joints, especially in the hands and feet. Stiffness is often felt more strongly in the morning, and movement of the affected joints is often limited.
Deformity of the Joints
Both rheumatoid arthritis and gout can cause disfiguring and distortion in the joints, causing fingers and toes to twist and seize due to joints being deformed by the disease. Gout and RA can cause erosion in the joint and permanent joint damage.
Nighttime Flare-Ups
Flare-ups from gout and rheumatoid arthritis tend to be worse during the nighttime, creating pain, stiffness and inflammation during sleep, according to the University of Michigan Health System.
Nodules
Chronic gout may first present with tophi, or nodules on the hands, ears or elbows. Tophi are deposits of urate crystals that form in the skin. Tophi may be the only symptom of gout with no other discernible signs. Rheumatoid arthritis can also appear with the formation of hard nodules under the skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The nodules of RA and tophi from gout are both often painless.
