Hi,
The pain, swelling and stiffness in various joints can be due to various causes. Hence to treat the condition, a proper diagnosis and treatment accordingly, is required.
Some of the common conditions may be:
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Osteoarthritis, a degenerative disorder, usually diagnosed by Imaging of joints and some blood tests like HLA 27 etc.
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Rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory auto-immune disease, diagnosed by RA factor, ANA etc.
- Gouty arthritis, where uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints. Diagnosed by finding raised level of uric acid in the blood as well as finding needle like crystals of uric acid in joint fluid.
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Psoriatic arthritis, accompanied by skin condition of psoriasis, also, an auto-immune disease.
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Septic arthritis, due to infections of joints by bacteria, virus or fungus. Usually acute condition, diagnosed by examination of joint fluid.
Hence, the condition is to be treated according to diagnosis under guidance of your doctor /
rheumatologist.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Satnarain Bansal, General & Family Physician