How Do You Know If You Have Arthritis?

If you think you do, see your physician sooner rather than later; don't just try to treat yourself. Your symptomatic and long-term treatment may be much more successful if begun early.

The diagnosis is primarily based on clinical findings including- pain, a pattern of joint involvement, joint enlargements, and specific joint deformities. Your doctor will probably recommend x-rays to identify the extent of the damage and certain blood tests to rule out other conditions or to help identify the specific type of arthritis.

Take Dr. Donnica's Decisionnaire ™. Check off all the points that apply to you and take this list with you when you consult your physician.

___	You have joint discomfort or swelling.
___	You have unexplained fatigue.
___	You notice a change in your fine motor skills with your hands.
___	You notice difficulty writing.
___	You have a sudden unexplained limp or difficulty walking.
___	You have repeated bouts of tendonitis.
___	You have visual changes.
___	You have morning stiffness that improves gradually over a few hours.
___	You have feelings of stiffness in certain joints.
___	You have low-grade fevers.

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Created: 9/21/2000  -  Donnica Moore, M.D.