Is it Lupus? Rheumatoid Arthritis? How to Tell the Difference

How can you tell if you have lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or something else? The best way to learn the definition of symptoms of each disease, and then carefully compare them to your symptoms. Then you will have a greater position of knowledge when you visit a doctor and can insist on getting some tests to get a firm diagnosis.

of the symptoms of lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and other degenerative joint diseases often mimic each other, and are very similar. It is not uncommon to wonder if you have one, and then have it turn out to be the other. Here are 7 best lupus symptoms as noted by the American College of Rheumatology.

1 Butterfly-shaped rash that covers your face on the nose and cheeks.
2nd Sun rash of spending time in direct sunlight.
3rd Pain and swelling in at least two joints.
4th renal dysfunction
5th Swelling around the heart or lungs.
6th Low red or white blood cells.
7th Positive antibody test anitnuclear (positive result is not a definitive diagnosis of lupus, but it means that it could be present, and that more testing is needed.

On the other hand, on top of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are:

1 Mild fever, especially at night.
2nd Swelling and inflammation in one or more joints that lasts for more than a few weeks.
3rd Stiffness in swollen joints, especially in the morning.
4th fatigue
5th Positive rheumatoid factor test. However, approximately 10 to 15% of people with rheumatoid arthritis test negative for rheumatoid factor.

Although only a doctor can tell you with certainty whether this lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or both, and symptom guidelines can help you get a better idea of what you May have. It is important to note that when you visit your doctor so that you can run it in the right direction, tests, and get the treatment you need as soon as possible in order to enjoy a better quality of life.