Inflammatory arthritis is a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of the joints and often other tissues. These conditions include axial spondyloarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
It is advisable to seek medical advice if you experience persistent pain, swelling or stiffness in your joints.
Depending on the particular form of inflammatory arthritis, a diagnosis will most likely be based upon your symptoms, a physical examination and the results of x-rays, scans and blood tests.
Seeing your GP
Your GP will ask you about your symptoms as well as carrying out a physical examination, checking your joints for signs of swelling, and to assess how easily they move. If your GP thinks you have a form of inflammatory arthritis, they’ll refer you to a specialist (rheumatologist).
