PMR or RA?

[Fifebornlass]

I have been taking Pred for 10months now but have found it difficult to go below 10mg. Feel exhausted most of the time. I went back to GP and blood test for Connective Tissue Disorder markers are high. GP thinks I don't have PMR and it is possibly Rheumatoid Artheritis. She thinks I should come off steroids and start different medication. I have first Rheumatology appointment tomorrow. Any advice? Does anyone have both conditions?

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Many have both, and now you have asked question you can see related posts... but just because you cannot get below 10mg after 10 months doesn't automatically rule out PMR.

How are you trying to reduce - 1mg a time? 0.5mg a time? slower tapering plan? Any of these could make a difference.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

What test was supposedly for CTD? If it was the ANA test, it isn't necessarily diagnostic. Before you accept a GP telling you to stop pred (easier said than done even after only 10 months) to start something else you need to see a rheumatologist since only they can authorise that and do most of the tests required. You are seeing one tomorrow - wait and see what they say.

To be honest - after only 10 months, to be stuck on 10mg isn't unusual. If it was a high ANA test, that doesn't only point to RA, there are several disorders it could be but even perfectly healthy people can have a high RA. I think your GP is talking about things outside their expertise.

[Fifebornlass in reply to PMRpro]

Hopefully the rheumatologist will be more helpful.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Fifebornlass]

Hope so!

[Fifebornlass in reply to PMRpro]

Rheumatologist was very helpful. Said I definitely have PMR and the steroids only help the inflammation part of the disease and the tiredness and weakness are part of PMR. I have tested positive for RA but with no symptoms there is no need for treatment. Low Vitamin D so may increase the dose.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Fifebornlass]

Sounds like a find! Not sure what tests she means - there are none that are "positive for RA", just ones that suggest it is more likely. Rheumatoid factor is pretty meaningless, ACCP antibodies being positive means it is more likely you might develop it at some time in the future but it might never happen.