Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis: Eight Types Of Tests

/Home/Complications of Arthritis/Arthritis and Cancer/Arthritis and Cancer Diagnosis and Tests

Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis: Eight Types Of Tests

www.arthritis-education.com

Having rheumatoid arthritis is never welcome news. Considered as one of the severest forms of arthritis, it may eventually lead you to having completely useless or impaired joints and limbs. It is best to receive a proper rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis from a physician as soon as you suspect you’re suffering from this condition.

Diagnostic Tests for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Most diagnostic tests provided here are used to identify musculoskeletal problems of the patient.

Arthrography. This test is commonly used to determine the source of inexplicable joint pain. In arthrography, the patient receives an injection of contrast iodine. This solution is needed to highlight the person’s joints and make it more visible in X-rays. Before the exam, the professional may request you to fast so that no other substances would interfere and affect image clarity.

During the test, you may be asked to change postures and move your joints so that different angles may be taken. If you experience a modicum of discomfort during the exam, don’t worry because this type of reaction is expected. Inform your doctor, however, if you are pregnant or suffering from any allergies to shellfish or iodine as these could forbid you from taking this test.

Blood Tests. There are various types of blood tests, and it depends with your doctor which type of blood test you’ll end up taking. Rheumatoid arthritis in particular may be identified depending on the quantity of certain substances found in your body. Again, you may be asked to refrain from eating prior to taking a blood test. Blood samples will be generally taken from your arm.

Bone Scans. There are two types of tests falling under the category of bone scans. The first examines bone density and is not used for the detecting the presence of arthritis but the second one is. In the second type of test, doctors search for signs of unnatural bone formation as these can indicate the presence of cancer, infection, and yes - arthritis. In this test, technetium will be injected. It basically performs the same function of contrast iodine solution in arthrography.

Sidebar: This group of articles on general arthritis topics includes: what is rheumatoid arthritis, causes of rheumatoid arthritis, finding a good arthritis product and the American Arthritis Foundation.

Fortunately for people who can’t operate without eating, fasting is not required for this process. A nuclear camera is used to take the appropriate images and this process would take about thirty to ninety minutes to complete.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scans. This diagnostic test is a combination of computer technology and X-rays and used to determine more severe forms of arthritis as well as tumors or fractures in the person’s spinal cord, abdomen, or chest. Taking CT scans is painless so anesthesia need not be administered.

Doppler Ultrasound. Sometimes, rheumatoid arthritis is accompanied by other serious complications and this is why other diagnostic tests are taken. Your doctor may require you to undergo a Doppler ultrasound test if he suspects that you’re suffering from blocked blood vessels in your arms or legs. High-frequency waves are used to create images. Clear jelly is applied to areas that your doctor wishes to have images taken. This noninvasive test will take approximately half an hour to complete.

Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry. Prior to its invention, it was dual-photon absorptiometry was the most commonly used diagnostic test to determine the presence of osteoporosis, another bone disease and which has close tie-ups with rheumatoid arthritis. DEXA is able to accurately measure bone density by use of X-ray scanning machines. It is a short and painless procedure that doesn’t require you to make any special preparations.

Electromyography (EMG). This type of diagnostic test basically records and evaluates electrical activity in one’s muscles. It can determine whether nerves in your legs and arms are still functioning. EMG is an invasive procedure requiring needles to be inserted and connected to your skin to record electrical activity. Afterward, patients may experience various levels of pain and discomfort. Prior to the test, it is better not to apply any cream or lotion to your body or wear any type of jewelry.

Flexibility Tests. These may be conducted to determine just how far your arthritis had developed. Unless your range of movement has been severely affected by arthritis, you will generally experience no discomfort when asked to perform certain movements for this test.

There are other rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis tests that may be required to ascertain if you are truly suffering from the condition. Whichever test you end up taking, don’t hesitate to inform your doctor about any of your concerns.

Copyright (C) Arthritis-Education.com Home Remedies For Arthritis