My story

theresa4

I have sero negative RA in which little shows in the blood work. My crp and esr do elevate from normal level when I'm in pain and stiff etc. following a depo steroid my bloods return to normal range for a few weeks. One rheumy decided I didn't have RA but have fibro. I changed rheumy I have both according to her. After 6 years of battling with the disease I now have proof I have RA as my finger joints are changing shape or should I say misshaped. I'm not happy with this either after waiting so long for proof I now have it. It hasn't helped me feel any better as I'm now deformed. Be careful what you wish for. If you find your doc is not being supportive then yes change I find Much solace in the fact my gp is brilliant and my new rheumy is too.
Good luck
Theresa x

PatriciaH

Hi Kevin,

Really good news that the Doxy is starting to work so early on. That is really positive

I also do not have any Rheumatoid Factor or Anti CCP in my blood but I am still being treated for rheumatoid/inflammatory arthritis. My CRP and ESR are elevated but not as much as I would think they should be for the pain I am in!!! My rheumatologist says there are many types of inflammatory arthritis that come under the 'rheumatoid umbrella' - his words not mine.

It is a very difficult illness to diagnose and, no matter what label we are given for it, as long as we are happy with the treatment plan and our rheumatologist will work with us then that is good. If the rheumy won't listen to your views or 'allow' you to build a rapport with him/her making you lose confidence in their abilities, then I would have no hesitation in changing to someone else. Do your research, if you can, before changing though so you don't end up in the same situation you are in now!!!!

I think finding a doctor who will LISTEN to us is such a relief when we have ongoing problems. We then need them to work with us to help manage our symptoms.

Take care

Patricia