Signs and symptoms
... Osteoarthritis often develops slowly, and some people may not experience any signs or symptoms. However, osteoarthritis can cause the following signs and symptoms: Pain in a joint during or after use,...

Causes
... With osteoarthritis the problem lies in the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints. Over time, the cartilage deteriorates, and its smooth surface roughens. Eventually, if the cartila...

Risk factors
... The exact causes of osteoarthritis are unclear, but these factors increase your risk: Being 45 years old or older Being female Having certain hereditary conditions, including defective cartilage and m...

When to seek medical advice
... If you have swelling or stiffness in your joints that lasts for more than two weeks, seek medical advice. If your doctor determines that you have osteoarthritis, he or she can work with you to develop...

Screening and diagnosis
... Your doctor may use a variety of methods to diagnose osteoarthritis, including a physical examination, blood tests and certain imaging techniques. Doctors use blood tests to diagnose or rule out speci...

Blood Tests
... Patients with arthritis will probably have blood tests as part of their initial evaluation and follow-up care. This is because blood is the most easily and safely sampled body tissue and contains trac...