Is it Osteoarthritis or R A?

[caz1967]

I have had Osteoarthritis for more than 10yrs in a number of places, including bottom of my feet ankles hips spine elbow shoulder. Which has all gradually worsened, i take a lot of medications pregabalin for nerve damage pain co-codamol bu- trans patches, tramadol, etolac a anti depressant, and HRT.

Im very curious as to whether ive also started with RA in my fingers and generally everywhere as my fingers have started to change shape are very hot , burning painful long bones even my ribs are agony at times. Im yet to ask my GP as ive got other health concerns at the moment as well. Any one with more knowledge than myself regarding this it would be greatly appreciated.

[kohai OA Ambassador]

Hi Caz,

Can I ask, out of the various medications you've listed, which are you currently taking for the OA?

Co-codamol, Butrans patches and tramadol together? Or have these been ones you've been prescribed at different times?

I've been on all of these at different times, but never at the same time.

As far as HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) is concerned, it's primarily used for hormonal balance during menopause, I've never known it be used as any form of OA or RA relief.

None of us are doctors or rheumatologists here that are authorised to advise on if your OA is turning into RA, or you are developing RA as well. Only a referral from a doctor too a rheumatologist can confirm this either way for you. (I'm in the uk, if you are located outside of the uk, medical practices may work differently). I would suggest you get it professionally checked out though if it's causing you distress.