Don't confuse! There are differences between rheumatoid arthritis and gout

Joint pain is the most obvious symptom of gout, and it often occurs suddenly and is very painful, but these symptoms will disappear within a few days. Rheumatoid arthritis also has the symptom of joint pain, but this pain will exist for a long time. So the question is, what is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and gout?

The first difference:

Gouty arthritis is more common in men, while rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women.

The second difference:

Gouty arthritis initially affects a single joint, most commonly the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe; whereas rheumatoid arthritis usually starts as symmetrical arthritis.

The third difference:

In gouty arthritis, the blood uric acid level is elevated, uric acid crystals can be found in the synovial fluid examination of the joints, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is generally slow, and the rheumatoid factor is negative. In rheumatoid arthritis, the rheumatoid factor is positive, rheumatoid factor can be found in the synovial fluid examination of the joints, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is mostly increased, and the blood uric acid level is normal.

The fourth difference:

The joint deformity of gouty arthritis is mainly caused by the deposition of uric acid stones around the joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the destruction and dislocation of the cartilage and bones in the joints.

The fifth difference:

Gouty arthritis comes on quickly and subsides quickly, coming and going as quick as the wind.

The sixth difference:

Gouty arthritis can be treated with colchicine, which can quickly improve joint symptoms; while rheumatoid arthritis requires treatment with hormones and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to improve joint symptoms.