don't you just love opinionated folk.

[Sue8]

Over the past few weeks I have been on here blogging away about all my problems lol. I really look forward to reading all other blogs and questions and log on everyday.

Yesterday I was searching through the "communities" and found the one for RA and duly joined. Especially as my GP also thinks I have seronegative RA. Well, I have introduced myself on my first blog and boy oh boy there are some opinionated folk out there.

According to one lady I an't possibly have PMR as I am to young (yawn) so therefore do not meet the criteria for diagnosis. Then she goes on that a GP cannot diagnose PMR as he is not a rheumy and just cos the sreroids are working most definitely does not mean I have PMR.

I have basically said that whatever I have the steroids are working and though I don't really want to be on them I am mostly pain free and without them I would not be able to get out of bed let alone home educate my kids.

Does she really think GP's are thick and just diagnose and treat for the fun of it? It has took my doc a few years to come to the diagnosis so it certainly was not on a whim or to shut me up.

Sorry just had to rant and you lot on here are so supportive unlike the the other group.

[Dibs]

Hi Sue, I find the same comments. I'm 49 & was diagnosed with GCA 4yrs ago by GP & confirmed by Rheumy, ( no biopsy as no point due to heavy emergency pred dose)then this year a different Rheumy says maybe I not got it, although I meet all the criteria & steroid helping, I'm too young!!! But the he goes on to say I have PMR and possible Lupus but as the medication is the same for both he will just leave me on pred for life.

Everybody that I meet say that I can't possibly be that I'll as I look so well, nice comment but so far from the truth. Not able to drive to to sight loss, have to walk with a stick, difficulty in moving around, especially in the mornings and when sat at my desk for a period in work and then have to get up.

I also have RA in my feet and looked at the forum that you did but I have to admit that I have found a great deal of friendliness on this forum and this has helped me tremendously, having no one at home to talk to this has been a godsend.

As you say rant over & keep smiling, don't worry about other folk. Have a good day

[Polywotsit PMRGCAuk team member]

Yes I get posts from NRAS coming into my inbox because I registered on there to find out more about how a forum runs, when we first set this one up. And yes, there are some people on there who love to blow their own trumpet (bless 'em). Just because you are unusual (like not in the middle of the distribution curve, i.e. not average) doesn't mean you can't exist!! Stick with us girls and guys!

[Sue8 in reply to Polywotsit]

LOL, thanks Kate. I will stick to you like glue.

[soojay]

Good morning peeps,hope you all holding up.TREMENDOUS site and lovely folk.Good luck to everyone.Sue