It is important to suspect that you have arthritis if you experience joint pains and, more importantly, joint swelling in one or more of your joints. Arthritis is defined as joint pains and swelling but it may initially present as joint pains without swelling.
Why is it important to SUSPECT ARTHRITIS AND ACT ON YOUR SUSPICIONS PROMPTLY? Because arthritis, if not diagnosed and managed early, is progressively damaging to the joints and physically disabling to the patient.
However since joint pains, and even swelling, can have causes other than arthritis, it is important to make an appointment with a rheumatologist early so that the true cause of your symptoms can be determined through a detailed history, clinical examination and relevant investigations.
The correct line of management can thereafter be discussed and adopted.
Comprehensive Rheumatology Clinic Nairobi