While MS and RA can appear similar, the two have distinct differences.
MS targets thebrainandspinal cord, attacking themyelin sheath, which is the protective coating found on nerves.
RA mainly targets the cartilage in the joints.
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In some cases, the two diseases can occur simultaneously, which causes confusion in diagnosis and treatment.
Differences
The main difference between MS and RA is the area of the body affected by each.
In RA, the joints are affected.
The symptoms that occur in both can also differ, although some are the same.
Why Is Early Diagnosis Important?
Since both conditions worsen over time, an early diagnosis is important because it leads to early treatment.
The faster treatment begins, the better chance people have at slowing the progression of the disease.
Summary
Both MS and RA are autoimmune diseases.
The immune system mistakes healthy parts of the body for foreign invaders and begins to destroy them.
However, there are also some differences, including the typical symptoms and the body areas affected.
The best way to tell the difference between the two diseases is to judge your symptoms.
Remember that both diseases are treatable, and slowing the progression is possible.
If you have symptoms of either disease or both, see your healthcare provider for a prompt investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rheumatoid arthritis isnt a symptom of MS.
There are many early warning signs of RA.
Some of these include swelling, stiffness, pain, and aches in the joints.
Weight loss and fever can also occur in the early stages of RA.
Other early symptoms include fatigue and weakness, symptoms that are also common in MS.
Since MS affects the central nervous system, early symptoms can develop in various areas of the body.
While not everyone with MS will experience all the early signs, they will experience some of them.
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