Well got my first appointment with a rhuematologist in march next year can anybody tell me what to expect i have also found out xrays i had

[Hopey]

2 years ago showed early osteo my gp sending me to rhuematolist now because ccp level is up can you have both osteo and ra could the test be wrong

[helixhelix]

Hello, and welcome. First off you can have both osteo and rheumatoid or some other form of inflammatory arthritis, lots of us do - particularly if you are over 50. So obviously your doc thinks that you may also have something inflammatory going on, so very good that you are being referred to a rheumy to check it out. even of it's a rather long way away!

But did you mean that CCP or CRP levels are up? Not that it makes a huge difference, as both could suggest that you have an inflammatory arthritis. But a raised CRP test shows that you do have some inflammation somewhere, but there could be loads of different causes so you need the GP to talk to you about what could be done to help between now and March. If it's raised (anti-) CCP then that's a different test that shows you have so etching in your blood that makes it more likely that you have RA.

Anyway, the first rheumy appointment usually involves a physical check of your joints, more blood tests and x- rays. A good thing to do between now and then is to keep a diary of your symptoms, as they make the diagnosis from a mix of blood test results and the physical signs. Also take photos if you have any swollen joints, as sod's law often means that all your joints will look fantastic on the day of the appointment!

Polly

[Hopey]

Thanks for the info that helps to know what to expect yeh its my anti ccp that is elevated and my esr is elevated slightly as well

[lab-lover]

I have RA and OA. Before I was refered to a rhematologist, I had the blood test for RA markers, as it was positive then my gp reffered me. I then had an examination, plenty of questions asked, blood tests and xray. I was then confirmed with RA, and offered a steroid jab, which I gladly accepted. Was also given my first meds, which was Mxt.

[chogie8]

I had my first appointment this week, I was weighed,measured, saw the consultant, had ultrasound on my knees and right foot, then had x-rays of knees, hands and feet(10 in total), got a referral to orthotics and a blood test, plus he did offer to inject both my knees!!! I am scared of needles so hobbled off as fast as I could!! I too seem to have both osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, and yes they looked nice and normal on the day. It is nothing to worry about, remember you can always tell them to give you time to think about what is happenning to you.

[binlid]

h ihave osteo and ra dosent help to have too i also waited from sept till march last to see rhumy all test were done andwas put on meth now also sulpha i go to pain clinic as well at mo fo 6 weeks good luck with it all but make sure you get the nec pain reilief till rheumy app

[Hopey]

Thanks everyone for the info and support yeh trying not to worry about it but i suppose its the unknown thats bothering me oh well one step at a time

[allanah]

Hi hooey , great advice above but yeah march seems a long wait, but do gather your evidence as Polly says . Also get some painkillers that work well, Gp's are normAlly the best at that and when u need to rest do so . Find out too if heat pads or cold pads are best for your pain. Heat helps me but cold is recommended by docsxxxxx

[Hidden]

I can remember my first rheumy appointment, even though it was 26 years ago. He took hold of both my hands, looked deep into my eyes and said: "I'm going to make you rattle" then promptly prescribed me loads of meds!! He's emigrated to Australia since then and I have a different rheumy.