The diagnosis of RA is based primarily on the patient's reports and physical findings. X-rays of the joints may show joint space narrowing, areas of joint damage called erosions, and at times, bone deformities. Other Types of Arthritis Chemicals in the body form into crystals that can trigger severe episodes of joint inflammation called gout and pseudogout. Both lead to a rapid onset of redness, warmth, and swelling of one joint in the body resulting in pain. The diagnosis of gout or pseudogout is based upon the patient's symptoms as well as the presence of crystal in the joint fluid.
Medications can control inflammation and prevent recurrent episodes.
Other forms of arthritis develop due to environmental factors. Rheumatic fever and Hepatitis B infection can lead to a RA-like disorder with associated skin rash in the early stages of the illness. Joint inflammation can also occur when someone has rubella or measles or when one has been immunized. You can order FREE copies of HealthConnection or read it from our website.