Given that there are more than 100 kinds of arthritis and a host of other chronic conditions that show similar symptoms, doctors do not always find it easy to make an accurate diagnosis without calling for a myriad of tests, sometimes over an extended period of time. Of course, this is always to the detriment of the patient, as it translates into extended suffering in the absence of a diagnosis.

Interestingly, the patient can actually do much to help the general practitioner arrive at a diagnosis much faster and more precisely, mainly by making preparations prior to the consultations.

How do doctors weed out possibilities and eventually diagnose arthritis? Typically, in situations that do not require immediate action for the saving of a life, a doctor will ask the patient to describe his symptoms as well as any relevant areas of his medical history. The problem is that arthritis is one of the many conditions that start gradually and grow worse progressively over time, making the details a bit unclear after some time has passed. The usual case is that the patient visits the doctor only when the symptoms have become rather severe, and these are the only ones they remember.

The start of a disease of condition and its progression through time actually provides helpful clues for the doctor to pinpoint the real problem. Patterns in the different symptoms are also crucial points. As such, it is important for patients to prepare the information before the consultation: they may jot down the symptoms they have been having. The more details they may remember, the better it will be. For example, the patient might note what particular triggers cause symptoms to worsen, or what time of the day they may feel worse.

Some people may believe they do not have to write the information down, as they will surely remember the details when they are talking to the doctor. But the truth is, many patients feel nervous, upset, or stressed during the consultation, resulting in the greater likelihood that the minor details would get overlooked.

What kind of minor details do doctors value you telling them? First, the nature of the symptoms needs to be disclosed. As much as you can, try to remember how and when they started. Also, it will help to tell your doctor whether there are particular times of the day when they seem worse, or better, as well as how long the symptoms usually last.

The specific area in the body where the symptoms occur are also important points to consider in arthritis. He may ask if you experience tingling or numbness in certain body parts, stiffness, swelling or redness in any joint, as well as whether the symptoms happen on only one side of your body or both sides, and if they affect the way you carry out daily tasks. He may also ask if you have had an injury or perhaps an infection. He may also ask if any other member in your family has experienced similar symptoms or perhaps been diagnosed with arthritis.

In addition to listing down details of symptoms, you will also have to note down whatever medication you may be taking to treat other conditions. Also make careful note of the dosage. This is because many types of medication should not be taken at the same time as others. This list should include both over-the-counter and prescription drugs, so your doctor can know how to proceed with giving you added prescriptions or recommendations for your symptoms.

Details about your diet, alcohol intake, and sexual activities may seem irrelevant when checking for arthritis, but the reality is that some types of the condition have a greater chance of hitting people whose alcohol intake is higher, who eat certain kinds of food, who use intravenous drugs, or whose sexual lifestyle makes them more vulnerable to sexually transmitted diseases. When you understand the importance of sharing these details, you will not be shocked when the doctor asks you about these things. You will also know that it would be for your benefit to give an honest answer to every question, without worrying about being judged for your lifestyle or diet choices.

These preparations will help make your consultation with your doctor have a better chance of being fruitful and arriving at a diagnosis in a shorter period of time.