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• Bones & joints >> Rheumatoid Arthritis >> Disease duration 16-20 years >> Interview 03 >> Believes that a combination of genetics, flu and the shock of a bereavement contributed to cause her RA.

RA diagnosed '86. For 10 years chose NSAIDs/pain killers and complementary therapies. DMARD treatments started 1996 (various). 2 replacement shoulders 2000. Started Infliximab 9/02. Less pain/tiredness but pre-existing damage means hip replacement '04.

• Bones & joints >> Rheumatoid Arthritis >> Disease duration 0-5 years >> Interview 12 >> 'There are many possible causes but if you have it you just have to cope as best as you can.'

Diagnosed mid-2000 after rapid onset. Side-effects from sulphasalazine with hydroxychloriquine. Currently Methotrexate, NSAID, Losec, Celeximab and Paracetemol. Some steroid pulses and planned knee replacement.

• Bones & joints >> Rheumatoid Arthritis >> Disease duration 11-15 years >> Interview 29 >> Suspects that a genetic link even though she believes research has not been able to show this yet.

RA diagnosed '90 & Juvenile RA age 8-11. Significant DMARD side-effects. Had breast cancer '98 & drugs also relieved RA. Methotrexate 15mg/week, folic acid 5mg 6/7 days, daily Diclofenac, Tamoxifen 20mg & Nibedipine 20mg. Paracetemol & Zantac as required.

• Bones & joints >> Rheumatoid Arthritis >> Disease duration 11-15 years >> Interview 33 >> Prefers to accept that the illness has just happened by chance; does not want to blame her parents.

Juvenile chronic arthritis diagnosed 1990. Initially NSAIDs, then methotrexate but nausea & then oral steroids from age 15. Finger tendon repair & hip replacement (01) Currently Anti-TNF Humira injected 2/month, indometacin, co-codamol & Lansoprazole.