Multiple Sclerosis Vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis are both conditions that occur when the body's own immune system damages the body mistakenly. Multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis both affect more women than men and may occur simultaneously in one person.

Multiple Sclerosis Effects

Multiple sclerosis occurs when the nerve's coverings deteriorate causing miscommunication between the nerves and the brain. Symptoms of multiple of sclerosis may include fatigue, weakness and numbness of the limbs, body pain, tremors, coordination problems, blurry vision and dizziness.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Effects

Rheumatoid arthritis affects the linings of the joints in the hands and feet initially and may later affect the knees, hips, jaw, neck, elbows and shoulders. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can cause the bones to erode. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include fatigue, joint swelling, joint pain, swollen hands, fever and weight loss.

Effects

Both multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis are long-term medical conditions with symptoms that occur in cycles when symptoms may improve slightly and then worsen again.

Identification

Physicians diagnose multiple sclerosis using blood tests and MRIs. Doctors diagnose rheumatoid arthritis with blood tests and X-rays.

Prevention/Solution

Multiple sclerosis is most commonly treated with corticosteroids. Rheumatoid arthritis is treated with corticosteroids, Motrin and immunosuppressant medications. Physical or occupational therapy may be recommended to improve daily functioning for both those with multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Multiple Sclerosis
• Mayo Clinic: Rheumatoid Arthritis
• NIH: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Multiple Sclerosis