Arthritis

Diagnosis

* Diagnosed by symptoms and a physical examination

* Related factors such as occupation, medical history, any history of arthritis in the family and other activities that may strain joints (such as regular sporting activities) will be taken into account

* To pinpoint the type and severity of the condition, x-rays are sometimes used to diagnose arthritis

* Less often, a computerised tomography scan (CT scan) or MRI scan is required

* A CT scan is a type of imaging scan that shows the internal structure of a person's brain. In diagnosing dementia, CT scans can reveal tumours and small strokes in the brain. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI scan), is a diagnostic technique that provides cross-sectional images of the brain and other organs and structures within the body without X-ray or other forms of radiation.

Symptoms

* Symptoms of all forms of arthritis are stiffness, pain, and restricted movements of the joints

* Swelling, warmth and redness of the skin over the joint may also occur

* Osteoarthritis begins slowly with pain and stiffness in joints when they are moved

* For some, slight stiffness is all they will experience, but others go on to have grating joints, knobbly bone growths (especially on the hands), and joints that go out of alignment

* The pain and loss of movement tends to get worse as the day goes on, as the joints are used more

Who Does Arthritis Affect?

* Arthritis can affect anyone

* Arthritis is not only found in the elderly,