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Newly diagnosed

Posted , 4 users are following.

Jorja
Jorja

I am 55 years old and just diagnosed. I have been going to my g p for months with no success. Finally blood tests show a marker for rheumatioid arthritis. I have difficulty climbing stairs etc, and because I work with children am finding it hard to continue working. Does anyone have similar problems or advice. I have an appointment for rheumatology clinic on 10th june (seems ages) so have to cope until then.

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • LIBRA
    LIBRA

    Posted

    I'm sorry that you have been diagnosed with RA. I was diagnosed recently with this in my neck and both hands. My GP did blood tests then when the results came back I was reffered to King's College Hospital I'm sure you might know it as you do not live that far away from it really. The hospital did blood tests and x rays. I went back last week but because I have other medical conditions they debated my treatment and it was decided to put me on the Steroid Prednisolone. (which is frightening the life out of me). They have also given me Calcium tablets and will have need have regular blood tests. Libra

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    case and in between I have to go for an ultra sound. They have told me that I will need surgery on some of my fingers. I haven't the answers for you but I live in London if you like we could swap updates of treatment, as like you, I have asked for help on here. Libra

  • LIBRA
    LIBRA

    Posted

    Jorga why have you got to wait such a long time before you go to hospital? I think there is a Patients Charter about the time you wait to go to hospital and the time you wait to see the doctor. Won't your doctor refere you to another hospital? Failing this will your doctor sign you off work while you wait?

    In my earlier mesage to you which I messed up It took 6 weeks to see my gp have blood test and go to hospital.

    I do hope you can get seen quicker because I know just how much pain you must be in good luck Libra

  • kerrylouise
    kerrylouise

    Posted

    Hope it all goes well tomorrow. The only advice I can give to you is ask lots of questions and share your concerns, my consultant is good but the specialist nurse is fantastic, a vital link for you in times of need. I was diagnosed 16months ago at that time I was in agony most days I struggled to get out of bed and didn't understand why, no one had mentioned the word arthritus to me and as I was only 27 it had not crossed my mind so hit me like a bolt. 16 months on still have bad days but providing I pace myself I don't have the pain, just stiffness. Back to the hospital next week
  • gb54
    gb54

    Posted

    jorja,

    I am also 55 and have difficulty with stairs. I work as a staff nurse in an area of NHS called continuing care (working in a patient's home). If I was still on the wards I would be permanently on the sick!

    I was diagnosed with RA in January after many visits to the GP over the last year with swollen painful hands.. eventually sent for blood tests and referred to the rheumatologist. I have had swollen painful knees for several years but as I am overweight was reluctant to visit GP as they always advise to lose weight which I find difficult.

    I am on arcoxia as an anti-inflammatory and was started on sulphasalazine in March.. unfortunately it didnt agree with me.

    Now going to start methotrexate in a few weeks.. I will try anything to be painfree and try to regain some normality.

    regards...hope you get sorted soon.

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