Confused

countyfan

Posted last week concerning Osteo and Rheumatoid arthritis. Have now been back to the hospital but only to see Nurse specialist. None of the blood tests were positive for RA (Just the initial one in October showed elevated RF) Also the X-rays only showed osteoarthritic changes. They still want me to go on DMARDS though as the consultant said the clinical findings suggested RA. As I was given a steroid injection at the initial consultant appointment even the swelling and pain has gone and I am reluctant to start such drugs without actually seeing the consultant again. Help and advice greatly appreciated.

Countyfan.
PS Big game v Man City this pm but can't go cos too expensive!

suzygirl

Hello, the very fact that the steroid injection treated your symptoms successfully demonstrates that your arthritis is inflammatory as well as OA. I don't know how long it is since your injection, but once it wears off aprrox 6 weeks, the swelling and pain will return.

DMARDs are not given lightly, the rheumy nurse will check with the consultant before giving you a prescription. You can ask to be seen by the consultant again, to have things clarified for you. The steroids just dampen down the inflammation, they don't halt the disease process, which is what the dmards are for.

Having said that I have just been prescribed sulfa and am a bit freaked out and am dreading taking the first tab. So I understand it is a big step.

Hope this helps a little.

valval

hi they would not offer meds if they did not think you need them, ask if not sure but do not close your mind to it they will stop joint damage from inflimation. good luck val

barbara12

Hi
Sorry I cant really help with the meds, I just hope you get your questions answered, then you know were you stand.
Could your GP not help, I know how you feel when things arnt explained properly.
Good Luck
Barbara x