Occasionally, there are knobbly swellings over the joints at the ends of the fingers. In RA the onset is fairly sudden, with swelling and inflammation of the joint. The joint may appear puffy and hot at times. There may be vague aches and pains before the joint starts to swell. RA may move from one joint to another.
Arthritis affects mainly older people.
OA tends to affect more men than women and the peak age group is 40-60. Prevention Follow a good diet, with no refined foods. Reduce tea, coffee, cocoa and alcohol consumption. Choose herb teas instead. Eat plenty of raw vegetables and fruit.