Arthritis is a general term referring to conditions that affect the joints, or the tissues around the joint. There are more than 100 types of arthritis, most of which cause pain and stiffness in and around the affected joint. Some types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, also affect the immune system and some internal organs.
Symptoms: Symptoms vary depending on the type of infection, and symptoms can develop suddenly or gradually over time. Symptoms may occur and then disappear, or persist over time. Symptoms include: pain, stiffness in and around joints, and redness.
Doctors diagnose arthritis using a patient's medical history, physical examination, X-rays, and blood tests.
