A:

There are literally dozens of possible causes of your symptoms. These include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Reactive arthritis (joint inflammation that follows a few weeks after an infection)
• Other diseases marked by joint inflammation (such as arthritis associated with psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease)
• Rheumatic fever
• Infection (especially viral infections, such as Parvovirus, certain sexually transmitted diseases, and Lyme disease)
• Joint inflammation caused by uric acid or other crystals in one or more joints (gout, for example)
• Tendonitis or ligament strain
• Fibromyalgia
• Endocrine disorders (including thyroid disease)
• Vitamin D deficiency

It’s impossible to narrow down this long list without more specific information.

Many causes of joint pain will go away with time. But since you’ve had symptoms for over 3 weeks, it’s worth getting checked out. By reviewing details of your medical history and a physical exam, your doctor may be able to narrow down this list quickly. Blood tests and x-rays may also help.

If the diagnosis is not clear and your symptoms persist, consider making an appointment with a rheumatologist, an arthritis expert.

Early diagnosis and treatment of your joint pain can get you feeling better quickly. It may also help protect your joints from damage.