Early days

[Noddy66]

Hi just joined the group. My GP diagnosed osteoarthritis in my right hand and wrist a couple of weeks ago. I am right handed so quite difficult to manage simple tasks. Hand moderately painful all the time and worse if I use it. Particularly bad at night. I'm due to have blood tests this week but not very clued up as to what they are. I had shingles diagnosed a month ago rash gone but still feeling unwell. Prescribed codeine but try to take them only at night. Any insights about the blood tests or other test I should be having?

[Happyrosie]

the blood test would show if - just as an example - you were deficient in iron or vitamin d, or anything else, just to rule these out while they are doing the test, but mainly for what they call rheumatoid factor.

Depending on the result and local protocols you might then go on to see a rheumatologist.

I have similar in both arms, also feet. The rheumatologist prescribed exercise and pain relief, and referred me to the website of Arthritis Action - with which I was familiar anyway.

Funnily enough I was floored by a tummy bug a couple of weeks ago and am still housebound, and have been able to do very little exercise other than short easy videos with Joe Wickes and similar,,and the arm/wrist pain has gone. But it will be back when I resume normal activities!!

[Noddy66 in reply to Happyrosie]

Thanks Rosie that's helpful I'll check out Arthritis Action. Cheers