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• Bones & joints >> Rheumatoid Arthritis >> Disease duration 16-20 years >> Interview 23 >> There are times when you can remain independent, but at other times you need to accept some help.

Psoriasis age 17. Rapid onset RA diagnosed seronegative '86. Various DMARDS tried and complementary therapies/diet helped. Stroke '00, blood disorder & Sjogrens. Currently Steroids, Dihydrocodeine, Vioxx. 2 new knees/1 hip/2 shoulders & right thumb fusion.

• Bones & joints >> Rheumatoid Arthritis >> Disease duration 0-5 years >> Linda - Interview 60 >> Linda encourages other patients to volunteer to take part in clinical trials.

Linda was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in April 2010 and she is currently taking part in a clinical trial for Golimumab. This therapy, has significantly improved Linda’s quality of life. She no longer has flares ups that had previously affected her working life. She is awaiting a decision from her PCT as to whether they will pay for her to continue having this treatment.

• Bones & joints >> Rheumatoid Arthritis >> Disease duration 0-5 years >> Sandra - Interview 63 >> Because she feels much better since started on anti-TNF medication, Sandra tells others to try it, if it is offered to them but, to remember that it i

Sandra was diagnosed in April 2010 and her current rheumatoid arthritis treatment includes: Cimzia (certolizumab pegol), Methrotrexate, Sulfasalazine and Hydrochloroquine. Sandra’s consultant talked to her about reducing and eventually phasing out the last two drugs. She also takes painkillers; Diclofenac and Co-Codamol and Amitriptyline at night time.

• Bones & joints >> Rheumatoid Arthritis >> Disease duration 16-20 years >> Interview 03 >> It is important to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis as early as possible and to get it treated quickly.

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.