An accurate diagnosis is required for proper treatment of arthritis. With over 100 forms of arthritis, early symptoms can overlap and diagnosis can prove difficult. If left undiagnosed and untreated, many types of arthritis can cause irreversible damage to the joints, bones, and organs. If you have signs or symptoms of arthritis for more than two weeks, it is time to see a doctor or rheumatologist, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
When diagnosing arthritis, a doctor will look for very specific signs, symptoms, and disease characteristics. When diagnosing, your doctor will also consider:
- your medical history
- physical examination
- imaging studies
- blood tests and other procedures
A single symptom or a single test result is not enough to diagnose arthritis. Certain symptom patterns and tests are used to rule rule out specific types of arthritis. It can be an arduous process when you want quick answers.
As stated above, an accurate diagnosis leads the way to proper treatment. If you suspect arthritis, make an appointment with a doctor or rheumatologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating arthritis-related conditions). Read more about the diagnosis of arthritis in How is Arthritis Diagnosed?
Related Resources:
- I Think I Have Arthritis. Now What?
- First Visit to the Rheumatologist
- Blood Tests for Evaluating Arthritis
- Recognizing Early Arthritis Symptoms
- Early Diagnosis of Arthritis: Is it Important?
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