What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Common symptoms include joint pain, tenderness, swelling, redness, and warmth. Other symptoms may include fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite.
What Other Conditions May Have Similar Symptoms to Arthritis?
Though arthritis is a common condition, it can be mistaken for other conditions with similar symptoms. These conditions include:
Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints, which can be mistaken for arthritis.
Gout: Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the blood, which can form crystals in the joints and cause pain and swelling.
Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions and lubricates the joints. It can cause pain and stiffness similar to arthritis.
Tendinitis:Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons, the tough bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. It can cause pain and swelling in the joints, which may be mistaken for arthritis.
How is Arthritis Diagnosed?
To diagnose arthritis, a doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about the patient's medical history. They may also order blood tests and imaging tests, such as X-rays, to get a better look at the affected joints.