Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of autoimmune disease that affects the joints. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages healthy cells. This leads to inflamed joints and pain. Some commonly affected parts include knees, wrists, and hands. There is currently no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but some home remedies and medical options can help manage the symptoms. Living with a person with rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging. Below are 9 mistakes that you should avoid when talking about this condition.
Confusing Rheumatoid Arthritis with Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are not the same. While osteoarthritis causes gradual wear-and-tear, the former is an inflammatory autoimmune condition caused by a malfunctioning or overactive immune system. This leads to many differences between the two conditions. Overall, people with rheumatoid arthritis may experience swollen and stiff joints, and well as more serious complications. This makes it more difficult for them to perform some simple tasks in life. [1]