Arthritus ??

[Zampalion]

I have had pmr now since August 2013 have reduced to 6 mgs pred, but have now had both hands painful in mornings swollen later they gradually ease I cannot reduce anymore does the pred. Help if I have arthritis.i have an appointment to see a rheumatologist June 28th after all this time.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Pred will help if you have rheumatoid arthritis in your hands and many people find it also helps osteoarthritis too. Why did it take your GP so long to refer you to a rheumy? 

[Zampalion in reply to PMRpro]

Original Doctor left who diagnosed Pmr. New doc. Sent me for x-ray on my right thumb joint came back fine and then said l should see a Reumy. Long wait for an appointment 10  weeks. I have mainly left to manage pred.reduction on my own past 30 months now I am stuck because of the pain in my hands wears of in afternoon.

Regards

Zampalion

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

As PMRpro says Pred will mask most other arthritic related pains at higher doses, mine did re arthritic knee. Unfortunately as you reduce most other aches and pains recur, and of course as you haven't had them for some time it comes as a bit of a shock! And of course, you have to careful what other medication you can take alongside Pred. 

[Zampalion]

I am also taking Risondrate tablet 1 a week, also Adcal vitD 1500 mgs per day. I am also on Amitryptlyne 20 mgs per day.