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difference between RA and OA

(34 Posts)
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travelsafar Wed 28-Oct-20 09:03:36

How can you tell the difference between RA and Osteo arthritis? I have swollen finger and toe joints which are very painful at times. I have 3 herniated discs plus degeneration of the lower spine, although i think this may be now creeping higher up as some time i get acute soreness in the middle of my spine. My gp and hospital consultant have never said which arthritis it is. I have an appointment next month at the hospital so i will be asking this question. Just interested to know if any GN people can help with info.

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craftyone Wed 28-Oct-20 13:39:41

Its is all complex, RA OA and osteoporosis

osteoporosis and OA are often linked. That is what my last paragraph refers to. RA is autoimmune, different altogether

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Marydoll Wed 28-Oct-20 13:51:06

Anyone with a lung condition cannot have methotrexate.

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FannyCornforth Wed 28-Oct-20 14:11:40

DH has COPD and takes methotrexate.
I'm wondering if he should stop.
He has no medication for the COPD either. I asked the surgery if he should have an inhaler, and they said it wouldn't work for 'his type' of COPD.

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FannyCornforth Wed 28-Oct-20 14:12:22

It's a minefield isn't it? sad

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Marydoll Wed 28-Oct-20 14:16:29

Fanny I'm sorry I have caused you anxiety.
My consultant told me I couldn't have it, due to my lung disease. Perhaps it depends on the severity. I use three inhalers and am at risk of rheumatoid lung.

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FannyCornforth Wed 28-Oct-20 14:19:59

Thank you Mary
The COPD has not really been an issue until very recently, but in the past few weeks he's really been coughing, and I've noticed his breathlessness.

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FannyCornforth Wed 28-Oct-20 14:21:02

I do know that methotrexate has caused scarring on his lungs.

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Oopsadaisy4 Wed 28-Oct-20 16:53:09

DDs GP is going to book a blood test, we read up about the Oestrogen angle, but DD2 had cancer in her 20s and can’t take hormonal drugs.

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