Diagnosing Arthritis – What To Expect

It can be very important in preventing and curing arthritis to get a diagnosis for the condition early.  There are many causes related to the over 100 types of arthritis.  Getting a diagnosis for arthritis is as important as finding the cause of the disease.

Because arthritis symptoms can be related to other medical conditions, you should not overlook the possibility you may have some form of arthritis starting.

If you experience any of the symptoms of arthritis you should seek medical advise from a healthcare professional.  Prior to your appointment you should keep a log about your symptoms, this will help the doctor in his diagnosis.

You can expect to have a complete medical examination at your visit.  This can and probably will include some kinds of joint exercises to check your range of motion.

The doctor will go over your current medical conditions.  He or she will also discuss any previous medical conditions you may have had.  It will be necessary to go over some family medical history also.  This is because some types of arthritis can be caused from genetics.

The log of symptoms you kept will be discussed thoroughly with you.  It may be necessary to do other types of physical activity the doctor may see fit for your symptoms.

It may become necessary for you to have some diagnostic tests done to aid in a proper diagnosis.  There are a few common tests doctors often request in any office visit that may also be required to provide a proper diagnosis for your symptoms.

The doctor may have you get blood tests.  Blood tests can provide an abundant amount of information as to what is going on in your body.  Some types of arthritis can be diagnosed from blood tests alone.  Especially if it is a genetically caused arthritis.

You may have to provide a urine sample.  The urine sample can provide information on blood cells and infections in the body.

You may need to have x-rays.  X-rays provide images of the bones.  These images can provide the doctor with information on the condition of your bones.  Sometimes the doctor may require a CT scan.  A CT Scan not only provides pictures of the bones but it includes images of the tissue and muscle surrounding the bones.  This can be beneficial in aiding the doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.

In some cases, the doctor may find it better to refer you to a rheumatologist or other specialist for a proper diagnosis of your condition.

If you are diagnosed with some type of arthritis, the doctor or specialist will discuss with you the best treatments to aid in maintaining your overall physical and mental condition, the symptoms you are experiencing and hopefully curing your condition.

And although your symptoms may not be related to any type of arthritis, they should still be discussed with a healthcare professional.  Early diagnosis for any conditions only can benefit you.