Questions I should ask doctor

elliethepink
elliethepink Member Posts: 2
edited 16. Nov 2012, 11:00 in Living with Arthritis archive
Hi there everyone,

Had an xray couple of weeks ago as had pain in left hip, since September, when walking. I phoned gp surgery for result on Tuesday. Receptionist told me diagnosed as early onset arthritis - I'm 45 in a couple of weeks.

I have an appointment tomorrow with the doctor. Wht questions should I ask? The ones I have thought of so far are:

What type of arthritis is it?
Who diagnosed it - a specialist?
Will it spread?
Do I need more tests?
Treatment - painkillers?
Lifestyle tips?
Exercise allowed? (Have done research on this inc on this site - very useful
Useful supplements?

Any other questions I should be asking?

Any advise will be gratefully received.

Thanks

Ellie

Comments

  • dreamdaisy
    dreamdaisy Member Posts: 31,520
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hello, it's nice to meet you and I am sorry that you have had to find us.

    From what you have told us I suspect that OA (osteo-arthritis) may be the cause (I am not a doc) and that is dealt with by GPs. Early-onset? There is no such thing, alas and alack, OA is generally associated with the older generations but it can strike as young as the teens or early twenties. I have my OA (in both knees and both ankles) as a result of the joint damage caused by my other auto-immune arthritis but for OA the only treatments are pain relief, maybe an anti-inflammatory med and exercise to keep the muscles surrounding the afffected joint (or joints) strong. OA, like all arthriits, can spread but when and how it does is individual. Anyhoo, a receptionist shouldn't be diagnosing you, that is ther remit of your GP so let's wait and see what they say, yes? Please let us know and I hope we can help with information and support. I wish you well. DD
    Have you got the despatches? No, I always walk like this. Eddie Braben
  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,763
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I'm sorry I'm a bit late coming to this, Ellie, but you seem to have most bases covered there. I hope it goes/went well.
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • frogmorton
    frogmorton Member Posts: 29,786
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi Ellie

    I think that's a rather good list you have there to be honest :D

    BUT if you are having issues like falling or trouble managing tasks at home you might want to be referred to physio or OT etc.

    Oh and lovely to meet you :D welcome

    Love

    Toni xxx
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