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Symptoms - Comorbid Conditions - Health Problems - Common Complaints

Information on signs and symptoms, comorbid conditions, health problems, and other common complaints associated with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.
Recognizing Early Arthritis Symptoms
Early arthritis symptoms can be vague and confusing. Newly diagnosed arthritis patients quickly learn that early arthritis symptoms are just the first layer of uncovering a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.
10 Things You Should Know About Arthritis
Beyond the misconceptions and misinformation, there are 10 things you should know about arthritis.
Which Rheumatic Diseases Are Associated With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension?
Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a serious condition for which there are treatments but no cure. Secondary pulmonary arterial hypertension can be caused by or occurs because of another secondary condition. Which rheumatic diseases are associated with pulmonary hypertension?
Types of Arthritis and Rheumatic Conditions - Test Your Knowledge
There are over 100 types of arthritis and related rheumatic conditions. Overlapping symptoms can make some types of arthritis difficult to diagnose, but each type has prominent characteristics. How much do you know about the types of arthritis?
Arthritis - Test Your Knowledge
Arthritis is a complex disease with overlapping symptoms. Arthritis is expected to become more prevalent as baby boomers age. How much do you know about arthritis?
Is There An Arthritis Cure?
Contradictory information about an arthritis cure can be confusing for new arthritis patients. There are many books and articles written about an arthritis cure, but other resources claim there is no arthritis cure. Which is correct?
Amyloidosis - Rare Condition Secondary to Chronic Inflammatory Diseases
Amyloidosis is rare but potentially fatal. Amyloidosis can be a primary condition or can be a secondary condition to an existing inflammatory condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Reiter's syndrome, ankylosing spondylitis, and Sjogren's syndrome.
What Are Osteophytes / Bone Spurs?
Osteophytes are also commonly known as bone spurs. Osteophytes develop in deteriorating joints damaged by arthritis.
Oral Health Should Not Be Neglected by Arthritis Patients
Oral health is important for everyone. Arthritis patients and others with mobility problems should not neglect taking care of oral health.
What Causes And Heals Mouth Sores In Arthritis Patients?
Mouth sores are not uncommon in arthritis patients. We examine the reasons for mouth sores and treatments for mouth sores.
What Is Joint Effusion?
Joint effusion is a symptom of arthritis. It is an abnormal buildup of joint fluid.
Lymphedema vs. Edema - What Is The Correlation With Rheumatoid Arthritis?
An explanation of the differences between lymphedema and edema.
The Pain Quiz - Acute vs. Chronic Pain
There's more to know about pain than the fact that it hurts. Do you know the difference between acute and chronic pain? Do men and women respond to pain differently? How many older people take a painkiller on a regular basis? What is R.I.C.E.? Are there any non-drug pain relievers? How much do you know about pain?
"I Think I Have Arthritis. Now What?"
When the first signs and symptoms of arthritis appear, confusion and questions arise.
Anemia - Is anemia commonly associated with chronic arthritis?
Anemia is often a symptom associated with chronic arthritis.
Ankylosing Spondylitis Screening Quiz
Ankylosing spondylitis is one of the rheumatic diseases which belong to the group of conditions known as spondyloarthopathies. Statistics reveal that about 129 out of 100,000 people in the United States have ankylosing spondylitis. Do you have symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis?
Anti-CCP - What is anti-CCP?
Anti-CCP is a diagnostic test for rheumatoid arthritis.
Arthritis Pain - Questions and Answers about Arthritis Pain
Most forms of arthritis are associated with pain that can be divided into two general categories: acute and chronic. Acute pain is temporary. Chronic pain, such as that seen in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can last a lifetime. Learn more about arthritis pain in this 10 part Q and A.
Arthritis Patients Need More ZZZZZ's
Disrupted sleep is an often overlooked problem associated with arthritis.
Arthritis Screening Quiz
Are you having arthritis symptoms? Take our screening quiz.
Behçet’s Disease - Guide to Behçet’s Disease (Behcet's Disease)
Behçet's disease was first described in 1937 by Dr. Hulusi Behçet, a dermatologist in Turkey. Most symptoms of the disease are caused by inflammation of the blood vessels. The five most common symptoms of Behçet's disease are mouth sores, genital sores, other skin lesions, inflammation of parts of the eye, and arthritis.
Arthritis And Hoarseness Or Changing Voice
Hoarseness or voice change can be related to arthritis.
Blood Tests For Evaluating Arthritis
When used in conjunction with the patient's clinical picture and history, lab tests help confirm the diagnosis of a disease and track disease activity.
Buffalo hump - Hump behind the shoulders
A lump of fat on the back of the neck(cervicodorsal) called a buffalo hump by itself is not a sign of any one, specific condition. It must be considered in light of other symptoms and test results. Common causes include extended use of some steroids (glucocorticoids such as prednisone, cortisone, and hydrocortisone) and hypercortisolism (caused by Cushing's syndrome).
Can hypothyroidism cause joint pain?
Joint problems caused by hypothyroidism can be difficult to distinguish from rheumatoid arthritis, according to MayoClinic.com.
Cardiac tamponade
Compression of the heart caused by blood or fluid accumulation in the space between the myocardium (the muscle of the heart) and the pericardium (the outer covering sac of the heart).
CDC: 1 in 3 Adults in U.S. Have Arthritis
According to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the estimated prevalence of arthritis and chronic joint symptoms among adults in the United States was 33% in 2001 (69.9 million adults).
Comorbid condition - What is a comorbid condition?
What is a comorbid condition? Do most people with arthritis have a comorbid condition? Does it make them harder to treat?
Conquering Depression
Chronic illness affects both mind and body. The degree of the psychological effect is variable and depends on a persons coping skills and attitude.
Crepitus - What is crepitus?
A clinical symptom characterized by peculiar cracking.
Diagnostic Test For Lupus
Scientists have developed a new diagnostic test for lupus which will improve detection of the autoimmune disease.
Did You Know?
An attack of arthritis led to the Boston Tea Party and the independence of the American colonies. Plus, 27 other little known facts about arthritis.
Does My Child Have Arthritis? - (Juvenile Arthritis Screening Quiz)
It's very difficult for a parent to see their child in pain. Take the Juvenile Arthritis Screening Quiz. Juvenile arthritis is not a single disease, but rather a variety of diseases with persistent symptoms of arthritis which start before age 16. Consult a pediatric rheumatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Dry Eyes - Guide to Dry Eyes
When the eyes don't produce enough tears or the right quality of tears, the result is a condition called keratitis sicca, popularly known as "dry eyes." Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome, are among the many causes of dry eyes.
Dry Mouth - Guide to Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can be a sign of certain diseases and conditions such as Sjogren's syndrome. Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. Dry mouth is more than uncomfortable, it can lead to serious health problems.
Edema - What are causes of intermittent edema in RA?
Intermittent edema in the ankles and calves can be an associated symptom of RA.
Fibromyalgia Screening Quiz
Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose. Combinations of symptoms can occur which overlap with other autoimmune diseases. There are symptoms which are considered "defining" of fibromyalgia. There are also symptoms considered "non-defining" but they often occur as part of fibromyalgia syndrome. Take our Fibromyalgia Screening Quiz.
Foot Care - Guide To Foot Care and Common Foot Problems
Learn more with this guide to foot care and common foot problems.
Gout Screening Quiz
Gout is one of the most painful types of arthritis. Do you have symptoms which are associated with gout? Do you have a lifestyle which increases the risk factors associated with gout? Take our Gout Screening Quiz.
Guide to Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition thought to be a disorder of the nervous system. Older terms used to describe complex regional pain syndrome are reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) and causalgia.
Guide to Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA)
Children can develop almost all types of arthritis that affect adults, but the most common type that affects children is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA).
Hearing Loss - Can Arthritis Cause Hearing Loss?
Some people with arthritis complain of ear problems or hearing loss. Is there a connection between arthritis and hearing loss?
HIV and Arthritis: What's The Connection?
HIV, the virus which causes AIDS, can also cause arthritis pain, joint pain, muscle pain, and muscle weakness. It's important to determine whether the symptoms of rheumatic disease presented by a patient are or are not associated with HIV. Rheumatic disease associated with HIV may alter usual treatment and prognosis.
How to Keep an Arthritis Journal
Helpful hints on how to maintain a daily arthritis journal and relieve stress through writing.
How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis
Because there are over 100 different types of arthritis, symptoms of the disease can be variable, but there are certain signs which point to the disease.
How To Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
The symptoms of fibromyalgia can overlap with autoimmune diseases and other musculoskeletal conditions making it difficult to diagnose.
I'm Tired Of Being Tired
The most prevalent complaint among sufferers of inflammatory arthritis concerns their level of fatigue and its intrusiveness into daily living.
Inflammation - Test Your Knowledge
Inflammation is a process associated with many diseases, including arthritis. Do you know what is happening as inflammation occurs? Do you know why inflammation occurs?
Inflammation: The Battle Within
Inflammation is a natural defense of the body to protect against foreign substances or injury, but it can cause problems in certain diseases.
Leaky-Gut Syndrome May Play Role In Arthritis
Some researchers claim that leaky-gut syndrome, or increased intestinal permeability, is implicated in dozens of diseases.
Lupus Screening Quiz
People with lupus produce abnormal antibodies in their blood which target tissues within their own body. Lupus is one of the autoimmune diseases. The chronic inflammation which is associated with this condition can affect the skin, heart, lungs, kidneys, joints, and nervous system.
Misconceptions About Arthritis
There are many misconceptions about arthritis. It is often portrayed as just a minor ailment even though over a hundred types of arthritis exist.
Osteoarthritis Screening Quiz
Osteoarthritis is also known as "wear-and-tear" arthritis. It is typically seen as a primary disease in older people but can occur as a secondary condition in younger people. Injury, occupation, excess weight, and genetics are among the factors which cause the cartilage of a joint to wear away. Take our Osteoarthritis Screening Quiz.
POLL: Rheumatoid Factor - Are you seronegative or seropositive?
80% of adults with rheumatoid arthritis test positive for rheumatoid factor (seropositive). What was your result?
Quiz: Is it Rheumatoid Arthritis or Lupus?
Two of the 100 types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. There are specific symptoms, distinguishing characteristics, as well as overlapping symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Do you know the difference?
Quiz: Is it Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis?
Two of the most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There are specific symptoms and distinguishing characteristics which determine the diagnosis and course of treatment. Do you know the difference?
Raynaud's Phenomenon Screening Quiz
Raynaud's phenomenon can occur as a primary condition or secondary condition (for example, along with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma). The primary characteristic is cold and discolored fingers and toes. Take the Raynaud's Phenomenon Screening Quiz.
Reactive Arthritis - Guide To Reactive Arthritis - Reiter's Syndrome
Reactive arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs as a reaction to an infection elsewhere in the body. Reactive arthritis is also known as Reiter's syndrome, and your doctor may refer to it by yet another term, as a seronegative spondyloarthropathy.
Remission - What defines a remission in rheumatoid arthritis?
Clinical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can subside for a period of time. What defines a true remission in rheumatoid arthritis patients?
Guide To Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless legs syndrome is a sleep disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move when at rest.
Rheumatoid Arthritis & Heart Disease - Rheumatoid Arthritis patients have higher heart disease risk.
Mayo Clinic researchers indicate rheumatoid arthritis patients have higher risk of coronary heart disease, silent unrecognized heart attacks, and sudden cardiac deaths.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Does Not Increase Lung Cancer Risk
Rheumatoid arthritis does not increase the risk of lung cancer, according to new research. Previous research showed an increased risk but could not assign causality because of lack of data.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening Quiz
Early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and early, aggressive treatment can help prevent joint damage and deformity. A combination of diagnostic tests, physical examination, and x-ray evidence confirms the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Take our screening quiz and if you suspect rheumatoid arthritis, consult a rheumatologist.
Scleritis
Scleritis is an inflammation of the sclera (the white outer wall of the eye). Inflammation of the sclera can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosis. Sometimes the cause is unknown.
Scleroderma: Not A Single Disease
Referred to often as a single disease, scleroderma is actually a symptom of a group of diseases complicated by the abnormal growth of connective tissue which supports the skin and internal organs. Learn about the different types of scleroderma.
Sjogren's Syndrome Screening Quiz
Sjogren's syndrome can occur as a primary condition or a secondary condition. Take our screening quiz and see if you have symptoms associated with Sjogren's syndrome.
Sports Injury Guide - The Common Types of Sports Injuries
Learn more about the common types of sports injuries.
Step-by-Step: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The steps involved in the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Step-by-Step: The Cause of Knee Pain
A step-by-step look at knee pain caused by arthritis.
The Acronyms for Arthritis Related Organizations
Common acronyms for arthritis related organizations and foundations.
The Acronyms for Tests, Treatments, & Surgical Procedures
Common acronyms for tests, treatments, & surgical procedures related to arthritis.
The Acronyms Related to Healthcare, Disability, and Insurance
Common acronyms related to healthcare, disability, and insurance.
The Arthritis-Related Acronyms
A reference for arthritis related acronyms.
The Back Pain Quiz
Back pain is a very common condition. Four out of 5 people will actually experience low back pain sometime in their life. How much do you know about back pain? Do you know how it's treated? Do you know if you can prevent it? Take The Back Pain Quiz.
The Effect Of Stress On Arthritis
Too much stress can increase pain and make it more difficult for people with arthritis to cope with the added burdens imposed by their disease.
The Gout Guide: Free E-Course Newsletter
We have designed our free newsletter e-course to guide you to better understand gout. Learn about gout basics, gout history, gout cause, gout diagnosis, gout treatment, gout prevention, gout diet, gout medication, and gout research.
The Gout Quiz - Test Your Knowledge
How much do you know about gout? You probably heard of it, but do you know the difference between purines and probenecid? Do you know what you need to do to prevent gout attacks? Does your lifestyle put you at risk for gout? Take the Gout Quiz and test your knowledge.
The Pain Relief Quiz
How much do you know about relieving pain? Pain serves as the signal that something is wrong in the body. There are many pain relieving techniques which can be tried. Do you know about the various pain treatment options? Take the Pain Relief Quiz.
The Rheumatoid Arthritis Guide: Free E-Course Newsletter
Various aspects of rheumatoid arthritis make it different from other kinds of arthritis. It is important to learn all that you can about the disease. Better understanding will enhance your ability to manage the condition.
The Write Treatment
Study results recently reported in JAMA indicate a beneficial effect of writing about stressful experiences on the manifestation of arthritis and asthma.
Treating Depression Relieves Arthritis Too
A new study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals that treatment for depression also improved arthritis symptoms in older people suffering with the comorbid conditions.
What is "Chronic Fatigue" vs. "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome"?
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is the medical name for a condition of extreme and persistent fatigue. However, chronic fatigue can also be a severe symptom of many chronic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and lupus. For a diagnosis of CFS to be made certain specific criteria must be met. What is the difference between "chronic fatigue" and "chronic fatigue syndrome"?
What is an Arthritide?
A brief explanation and fast facts about this often confused term.
What is an Arthritis Flare?
Arthritis patients often say they are in a flare. What defines an arthritis flare?
What Is Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)?
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body makes antibodies to its own phospholipids or plasma proteins. The disorder may also occur with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or another rheumatic disorder.
What is Arthritis?
A brief explaination and fast facts about the term "arthritis".
What Is C-Reactive Protein (CRP)?
As a blood test, CRP is not specific. A high result serves as a general indication of acute inflammation. Doctors can utilize the CRP test to assess the effectiveness of a specific arthritis treatment and monitor periods of disease flareup. Does your doctor order this test routinely.
What is CREST syndrome?
The symptoms involved in CREST syndrome are associated with the generalized form of the disease Systemic sclerosis (Scleroderma). CREST is an acronym for the clinical features that are seen in a patient with this disease.
What is Pericarditis?
Pericarditis is a disorder caused by inflammation of the pericardium, which is the sac-like covering of the heart. Pericarditis can be associated with systemic diseases such as autoimmune disorders and rheumatic fever.
What is Rheumatoid Factor?
Explanation of the significance of rheumatoid factor.
What Is Rheumatoid Lung Disease?
Lung abnormalities are not uncommon in rheumatoid arthritis.
What is Weakness?
Weakness may be subjective (the person feels weak, but has no measurable loss of strength) or objective (measurable loss of strength as noted in a physical exam). Weakness may be generalized (total body weakness) or localized to a specific area, side of the body, limb, or muscle.
What Is Synovium?
A brief explanation and fast facts about synovium, which is also known as the joint lining.
Scleroderma Screening Quiz
Referred to often as a single disease, scleroderma is actually a symptom of a group of diseases complicated by abnormal growth of connective tissue.
What Causes And Heals Mouth Sores?
Mouth sores are not uncommon in arthritis patients. We examine the reasons for mouth sores and treatments for mouth sores.

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