Pain and stiffness

[NPBD]

I have had rheumatoid arthritis for 40 years. G P says now it has burnt irtselff out as blood testa are normal (CRP and (I'm forgetting the word here!) So he has taken me off salazopyrin yhat I have been on for many years. He inhected a painful big toe. Now my fingers are very painful also my knees are very stiff but not painful. He says physio but waiti g list is long. Also he booked OT. Any suggestions?

[MAS_Nurse]

Hi NPBD, Good morning! Personally I have never heard of anyone totally recovering from RA after such a long time. It can have periods where it is less active. It is possible that it was mis-diagnosed, but unlikely if you had been correctly tested over those 40 years.

'Blood tests can measure inflammation. You may have one of these tests: erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) C-reactive protein (CRP). Both of these may show a high value when inflammation is present. Blood tests can show if you’re anaemic and may be used to detect rheumatoid factor, which is an antibody produced by a reaction in your immune system...

'Another antibody test known as anti-CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide) is also available. People who test positive for anti-CCP are very likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis. And people who test positive for both rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP may be more likely to have severe rheumatoid arthritis.' ( Arthritis UK)

Check Arthritis UK website which will give you a lot more information about your condition. arthritisresearchuk.org/art...

I wonder if you could ask for a referral to a Rheumatologist consultant, for a fresh look at your RA and get clarity regarding your previous diagnosis, as you are obviously still having aching and painful joints.

Hope this helps.

Keep us posted!

[NPBD in reply to MAS_Nurse]

I'm already on the hospital list with appointments as they come up but waiting list is so long it will be July! GP will not push for earlier as he has decided not necessary! I'll check the Arthritis UK site. Thanks!