Is Early Diagnosis of Arthritis Important?

When patients first have symptoms which may be arthritis, how long should they wait before seeing a doctor? What's so important about seeing a doctor as opposed to self-treating?

Why does it seem to be difficult for some patients to get an accurate diagnosis early on? Is it possible or common to have more than one form of arthritis at the same time? What's the most difficult aspect of diagnosing arthritis? We asked rheumatologist Scott J. Zashin, M.D. to explain, Is Early Diagnosis of Arthritis Important?

Related Resources:

• Do I Have Arthritis?
• First Visit to the Rheumatologist
• Recognizing Early Arthritis Symptoms
• Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis
• Early Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

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