How to determine whether it is arthritis and what tests should be done

Determining whether you have arthritis requires confirmation through symptom assessment and medical examination, mainly including imaging tests, blood tests and joint fluid analysis.

Typical symptoms of arthritis include redness, swelling, heat, pain, stiffness, or limited movement of the joints. If these symptoms persist for several weeks and gradually worsen, it is recommended to see a doctor for screening. Imaging examinations are the key to diagnosis. X-rays can reveal narrowing of the joint space or bone hyperplasia, and MRI can show soft tissue and early lesions. Blood tests help confirm whether the inflammation is related to abnormalities in the immune system, such as rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (ACPA) and other indicators. For infectious arthritis, the doctor may extract joint fluid for pathogen testing to find out whether there is an infection.

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial. When similar symptoms are found, seeking professional medical help early can significantly reduce the progression of the disease. At the same time, adjusting lifestyle habits under the guidance of a doctor, doing moderate exercise and protecting joints can help improve joint health and control the course of the disease.