Prior to the diagnosis is the anamnesis with a thorough questioning about the nature, duration and process of the discomfort. Followed by a careful physical examination to find pain on pressure and limited mobility.
X-ray, ultrasound, punctures and blood tests help find the suitable therapy.
Characteristic rheumatoid indications:
- thickening of one or more joints
- stiffness in the morning lasting more than 1 hour
- detectable rheumatoid factors in the blood
- symmetrical joint inflammations on both sides
- so-called rheumatic nodules above bone projections
- swollen soft-tissue on at least three joints
- continuous joint inflammations
- typical changes of the joints
