Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition. This painful disorder affects the linings of the joints. Joint swelling, joint deformity and erosion of the bones can develop with this condition. Doctors use symptoms and tests to diagnose this disorder.
Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, rheumatoid arthritis patients can develop painful swollen joints that are tender when touched. Fatigue, fever and morning stiffness have been reported.
Smaller Joints
Rheumatoid arthritis begins in the smaller joints of the body such as the wrists, hands and ankles. Pain and swelling may spread to larger joints, including the shoulders, knees and hips, as the disease progresses.
Flare-ups
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can flare up and become more severe after a period of less intense pain.
Blood Tests
Doctors may use blood tests of erythrocyte sedimentation, rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.
X-rays
X-ray images may be used to keep track of worsening joint and bone conditions as a patient's rheumatoid arthritis condition progresses.
Tags: rheumatoid arthritis
