Diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) involves a combination of several tests and a physical exam. No single test can be used alone for diagnosis. Early stages of rheumatoid arthritis are difficult to diagnose since signs are non-specific. Your doctor will perform a physical exam to check for jointRead more
Diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) involves a combination of several tests and a physical exam. No single test can be used alone for diagnosis. Early stages of rheumatoid arthritis are difficult to diagnose since signs are non-specific.
Your doctor will perform a physical exam to check for joint swelling, redness, and warmth, and to evaluate your reflexes and muscle strength. They will also ask about your medical history and symptoms.
Some common tests used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis include:
1. Blood tests: Blood tests can be used to test for rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies, which are often present in people with rheumatoid arthritis. An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test can also be used to determine the presence of inflammatory mediators.
2. Imaging tests: X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound can help identify the extent of damage to the joints.
3. Joint fluid analysis: A procedure called arthrocentesis, during which a sterile needle is used to withdraw joint fluid, can help determine the cause of symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can cause a wide range of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include: - Tender, warm, swollen joints: The inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis can cause painful swelling in the joints, making them tender and warm to the touch. - JoinRead more
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can cause a wide range of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include:
– Tender, warm, swollen joints: The inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis can cause painful swelling in the joints, making them tender and warm to the touch.
– Joint stiffness: People with rheumatoid arthritis may experience stiffness in the joints, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
– Fatigue: Rheumatoid arthritis can cause fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell.
– Fever: Some people with rheumatoid arthritis may experience a low-grade fever.
– Loss of appetite: Rheumatoid arthritis can cause a loss of appetite and weight loss.
Early rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect smaller joints first, particularly the joints that attach your fingers to your hands and your toes to your feet. As the disease progresses, symptoms often spread to the wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips, and shoulders. In most cases, symptoms occur in the same joints on both sides of your body. About 40% of people who have rheumatoid arthritis also experience signs and symptoms that don’t involve the joints. Areas that may be affected include the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, kidneys, salivary glands, nerve tissue, bone marrow, and blood vessels.
See less