Hi Agnes,

I had a quick diagnosis from my GP based on the rheumatoid factor being very high, plus high CRP and ESR( inflammatory markers). This was 9 years ago and he didn't initially refer me to a rheumatologist.
However, within a few weeks all my joints were swollen and painful so he referred me then.
My rheumatologist did think it could possibly be reactionary arthritis and might settle down but as it didn't, and the blood tests he did showed it was a definite RA , he started me on DMARDs.
All this took about 10 months before I started on the drugs but it was 9 years ago and the guidelines for early referral and treatment were not in place.
In a way, that was good because at least my condition was given the chance to resolve itself before starting on the drugs,it's a pity that didn't happen!

I wish you luck with whatever you decide.
The anti-CCP test by the way is a more reliable test than the Rheumatoid factor.
Keep us posted as to what happens.

Doreen xx

Hello Agnes,
Just to say about employment - there are really useful booklets available from NRAS for employees and employers - very useful to show any prospective employers. Ive used them several times now at work with meetings about RA problems etc.
- VERY good for highlighting the differences between RA and the kind of arthritis everyone seems to relate to and say things like "OH i know whats that like that, that's what i get it in my big toe...

Hi Agnes

Good to hear from you again and I was also pleased to hear that you are considering a second opinion. It is a life changing lifelong condition and everyone is entitled to the very best treatment available without comprise. However that to me means the best for each individual patient and we are all very different. I understand the new regime of straight in with anti tnf drugs before anything else is tried but
1. this is for the benefit of those doing the trial.
2. if it works for you that's great but similarly a much less potent drug might have been equally effective.
3. there is no 'hard' evidence as yet that long term this works. It looks encouraging but ...
4. you could be receiving toxic treatment for a 'condition' that is self limiting.
5. the reason they want you on regularised steroid is to provide a starting point for the trial. Think you might need to stay on the 5mg prednisolone as part of the requirements.

The health authority will be getting paid well for running a trial and it seems to me that they are a little over keen to get you on the programme. Yes I am cynical and I am wary but this is your future. You are embarking on a new career for which your health is very important. As Barbara says you will be covered by the Disability Discrimination Act, that's fine if you are able to continue to work. I managed to stay at work for three weeks after diagnosis; I was bed bound, totally unable to move. It would not have helped me!

Information about the CCP Test can be found on this link.

Methotrexate is an effective drug often used as a first line treatment. It can easily be adjusted to suit a patients particular needs. Once you have all the information you need you will be able to make the decision that is right for you at the present time. I was interested to read about your uncle having RA as there has been much discussion about genetic pre-disposition. I haven't read anything about it lately though.

All the best for your appointments. Do let us know how you go on. Take care,

Lyn x

well sounds a bit like me expect they got you up the hospital a lot sooner .

I only had the choice MTX and have done very well on it gone from being at work getting RA TO total useless and useing a wheelcair .

And going on MTX and getting better .

we are all differant in this i have overlap Slceroderma as well .
i am christine the mad one don,t let things stop me 57 yrs married to a toy boy and have a son at uni 23 yrs old
My brain thinks i am only 30ish .I have had ra since around late 06/earley 07 .

Christine