How often would you visit you doctor for arthritis?

Joint symptoms may signal a serious type of arthritis that can cause permanent joint damage if treatment is delayed. Know what to watch for so you can take action.

If you are having joint symptoms that cause concern, there are good reasons to see a doctor for an evaluation and diagnosis.

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide when getting to the doctor for a diagnosis should be a priority.

Watch for these potential signs and symptoms of arthritis:

Pain, swelling, or stiffness in one or more joints
Joints that are red or warm to the touch
Joint tenderness or stiffness
Difficulty moving a joint or doing daily activities
Joint symptoms that cause you concern
Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any of the following:

Joint symptoms that last three days or more
Several episodes of joint symptoms within a month