When it comes to inflammatory conditions, rheumatoid arthritis and gout are often mentioned. While rheumatoid arthritis is a well-known condition, it affects a smaller population compared to gout. Approximately 1.5 million individuals in the United States are estimated to have rheumatoid arthritis. In contrast, gout impacts a significantly larger number of people, with around 8.3 million individuals affected in the United States alone. Although both conditions involve inflammation, they differ significantly in terms of their causes, treatments, and long-term outcomes.
Understanding Gout: A Condition Caused by Uric Acid Build-up
Gout is classified as an inflammatory disease that arises from an accumulation of uric acid in the bloodstream. This excess uric acid leads to the formation of minuscule crystals, which subsequently prompt the immune system to heighten inflammation in an effort to shield the joints. While gout shares similarities with arthritis, it can also manifest as a chronic ailment. Notably, unlike rheumatoid arthritis, gout-related inflammation predominantly affects the big toe.
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy tissues in the joints. Unlike gout, which is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream, rheumatoid arthritis is not directly linked to any specific blood factor. Initially, this condition primarily affects the hands and feet, but it can progressively involve any joint in the body. Unlike gout, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect internal organs, such as the heart and lungs, as the immune system can mistakenly target these vital organs in individuals with this condition.