Our screenings
Arthritis Check
Arthritis is a common condition causing pain and inflammation in joints. In the UK, there are currently around 10 million people suffering from the condition.
There are two main types of arthritis; osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
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The most common form of arthritis in the UK, osteoarthritis affects around 8 million people. Typically developing in patients in their late 40s or over, the condition affects joints in the hands, spine, knees, and hips.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects over 400,000 people in the UK, usually developing between the ages of 40 and 50. Women are three times more likely to develop the condition than men.
Symptoms of arthritis include:
- Joint pain, tenderness, and stiffness
- Inflammation in and around the joints
- Restricted movements of the joints
- Warn, red skin over the affected joint
- Weakness and muscle wasting
Causes of Arthritis
Arthritis is caused by a reduction in the normal amount of cartilage tissue between joints. Normal wear and tear leads to Osteoarthritis whereas Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by an auto-immune disorder that attacks the tissue that nourishes the cartilage and lubricates the joints.
Most types of arthritis are caused by a combination of different factors, including:
- Genetics
- Infection
- Smoking
- Previous injury
- Physically demanding occupations
Screening for Arthritis
In this case, this is taken from your blood sample.
If you don't have any symptoms of arthritis, a calcium test can be carried out to check if you have sufficient levels of calcium in the body. The level of calcium in the body depends on factors such as:
- The amount of calcium you get from food
- The amount of calcium and vitamin D that the intestines absorb
- The levels of phosphate in the body
- Hormone levels, including oestrogen, calcitonin, and parathyroid hormone
A blood calcium test measures the levels of calcium in the blood and can help to identify:
- Certain bone diseases
- Certain cancers
- Chronic kidney disease
- Chronic liver disease
- Parathyroid gland disorders
- Intestinal disorders
- Overactive thyroid
- Abnormal vitamin D levels
If you require any further information about screening for arthritis or for calcium, or to arrange a consultation, please get in touch. Our skilled and experienced team are always on hand to provide assistance.
