Arthritis (joint swelling)

About Arthritis (joint swelling)

Inflammation of a single joint or multiple joints. There are many causes including infection, and inflammatory conditions such as: osteoarthritis, gout, pseudogout, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriasis.

Symptoms

Joint pain, joint swelling, redness, increased warmth, decreased motion.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests and/or analysis of joint fluid will be done to determine cause of arthritis. Imaging studies may also be beneficial.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, MRI, X-ray.

Path 2 — Over-the-Counter Options

OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments

Path 3 — Prescription Options

Prescription medications

Conventional treatment summary

Determined by the type of arthritis. If the joint is infected, the main treatment is antibiotics and removal of joint fluid. For other types of arthritis, treatment may include but may include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn or Aleve), acetaminophen (Tylenol), sulfasalazine, corticosteroids (prednisone), methotrexate, etanercept (Enbrel), infliximab (Remicade), and/or adalimumab (Humira). For more information contact the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Information Clearinghouse at: http://www.niams.nih.gov or (877) 226-4267 Arthritis Foundation: (800)283-7800 Arthritis National Research Foundation: (800)588-2873

Medical specialties

Internal Medicine · Orthopedic Surgery · Rheumatology · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pediatric Rheumatology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Arthritis (joint swelling).