*हिंदी में पढ़ें: रूमेटाइड आर्थराइटिस (RA) और ल्यूपस में क्या अंतर है? पूरी जानकारी
When we talk about autoimmune conditions, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and lupus (SLE) come to mind. While the two diseases may share some similarities, it is important to remember they are distinct conditions with distinct causes, symptoms, and treatment.
Understanding the difference between the two is crucial for timely detection, treatment, and management. In this blog, we are going to discuss the primary differences between rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that mainly affects joints. Initially, small joints in the hands, fingers, feet, and toes typically start experiencing pain, swelling, stiffness, and inflammation. This happens because the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, thereby damaging joints. The symptoms gradually move to bigger joints such as the hips, knees, ankles, and wrists, etc.
RA can lead to persistent pain, and eventually result in bone erosion or joint deformities. While the condition primarily affects joints, it can also have adverse impacts on the skin, eyes, lungs, and heart.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes
There is no particular factor that has been established as the core cause of RA. However, the condition is believed to develop due to genetics, certain hormones, and environmental factors. Specific genes make you more susceptible to infections that carry certain bacteria and viruses that can trigger the disease.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Some common symptoms of RA include:
- Persistent joint pain
- Swelling around affected joints
- Stiffness in affected joints (more prominent in mornings or after rest)
- Inflammation
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Recurring fever
What is Lupus?
Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune disease that can cause chronic inflammation and pain in any body part.
SLE is unpredictable in nature – its symptoms may vary in every affected individual. Lupus is characterised by abnormal autoantibodies that can attack multiple organs, especially the kidneys, skin, joints, and blood cells.
Lupus Causes
The cause of lupus, like RA, is also unknown. SLE, too, is believed to be influenced by a combination of environmental factors, certain hormones, and genetics. Factors like infections, sunlight, and medication might flare up symptoms in individuals who are prone to lupus.
Lupus Symptoms
The symptoms of SLE can vary from person to person and can even change over time, making the condition difficult to ignore.
Some signs include:
- A butterfly-shaped rash on cheeks & nose
- Joint pain
- Swelling
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Anaemia
- Hair loss
- Blood-clotting problems
Difference Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus
Here’s a concise look at the key differences between RA and SLE:
| Differences | Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) | Lupus (SLE) |
| Body parts affected | Primarily affects: joints Can also affect: skin, eyes, lungs, and heart. | Can affect any body part (skin, joints, brain, kidneys) |
| Nature of symptoms | Persistent pain & swelling in joints | Sporadic & unpredictable; symptoms come & go |
| Focus of treatment | To manage pain & prevent joint damage | To manage symptoms, avoid flare-ups & organ damage |
| Symptom Symmetry | Symmetrical in nature; affects the same joints on both sides of body | Asymmetrical symptoms |
Understanding the difference between the two is critical for employing the correct management and treatment measures. Sohana Hospital boasts a highly experienced and skilled team of expert rheumatologists who specialise in treating all kinds of rheumatic and autoimmune conditions.
With state-of-the-art diagnostics, modern treatment facilities, and stringent safety protocols, the hospital ensures the highest quality of patient care.
If your google search history includes, “rheumatology doctors near me”, visit Sohana Hospital and consult the best lupus and rheumatoid arthritis specialists.