Psoriatic Arthritis

[wjwb]

I was "diagnosed" with psoriatic arthritis severala years ago.  I use quotes becasue a doctor looked at my swollen thumb and said "yup, psoriatic arthritis".  I've got a doctors appointment (different doctor) because I've developed chronic joint pain in my fingers and left wrist and a wierd splotchy rash on my forearms and shins that doesn't itch, isn't hot to the touch and isn't disseminated any place else on my body.  

What questions should I ask my doctor.  While I need something stronger than over-the-counter NSAIDS to relieve the pain, I just don't want to treat the symptoms.  Should I ask for a referral to a rheumatologist?

[wjwb]

Well, got some test results back and the RA antibody test was negative.  The doctor gave me a referral to a rheumatologist  and I see him next week.  Are there any specific questions I should ask him or that I should make sure he asks me?  On the same thought, asre there any specific tests i should make sure he runs?  

[wjwb]

Well, had my doctors appointment and he's ordered several tests including one for an RA factor.  H'es pretty sure it's PsA as I have all the classic symptoms.  He prescribed indocen (I think that's what the name is) for immedisate relief from the pain.  50mg NSAID bid.  It works well enough.  I plan to ask for a referral to a rheumatologist at the next visit regardless of what my tests show.  Thanks for the advice everyone.  One more question.  Does PsA ever go intot remission?  I've read on some sites that it does and others that it's progressively destructive (forgot to ask the doctor that question).

[Babs1469]

Hey there sorry I'm late to the party, I have been away from the computer because my fingers have been really sore. I also have Psoriatic Arthritis and you should 100% see a rheumatologist even if I can't spell it I love mine! I went from dermotologist to gastroentorologist back and forth and no body helped me until I was accurately diagnosed by the Rhuemy. If arthritis is indeed what you have, or another autoimmune disorder if he/she can't help, they can tell you where to look for help. Early diagnosis is key to living a better quality of life as soon as possible which we all deserve. Best of Luck, keep me informed and if you find out you do have PsA, if you have any questions or want to vent, I'm here!!

[TrudieC]

You should definitely ask to see a rheumatologist.  You are absolutely correct that you can't just treat the symptoms.  There are quite a number of auto-immune diseases that could cause these issues and a rheumatologist can get to the bottom of it and have you on the proper treatment.