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A MyPsoriasisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Eastcoast

Do Inconsistent Diagnoses make U Wonder if it's real?

July 8, 2023
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Answer Summary

Members shared their struggles with distinguishing between osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis, with many describing confusing or... Read more

Members shared their struggles with distinguishing between osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis, with many describing confusing or inconsistent diagnoses from different doctors, often requiring multiple x-rays, MRIs, and tests to determine whether joint pain stems from one condition, the other, or both. Several members discussed practical experiences with diagnosis, including how psoriatic arthritis pain tends to switch sides, the importance of getting second opinions, and navigating treatment options like methotrexate while being cautious about surgery that might activate the immune system and worsen symptoms. A recurring theme was the determination to accept their conditions without giving in, continuing to advocate for themselves through decades of medical uncertainty, and refusing to let progressive disease take away their independence or mobility.

A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

I think it’s important to accept your condition, yet continue to strive to overcome

August 24, 2023
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

I went to doctors for 30 years and never got a convincing diagnosis. In my early years it was, “You’re getting older (I was 30 at the time) and you have to expect some aches and pains. Happens to all of us.” Later, it became, “You definitely need knee replacement surgery on both knees!” I knew surgery was not a good idea for me, but it would be a lucrative $$$ idea for the surgeon. I let my family history guide me- my grandmother had psoriatic arthritis, her sister and two brothers had psoriasis, my father had psoriasis, I have psoriasis, my grandson has psoriasis. It’s my personal opinion that surgery under any conditions should be carefully considered. Surgery will activate that immune system and could make psoriasis/psoriatic arthritis worse. I’m now under the care of a wonderful rheumatologist who is treating me with methotrexate and Folic Acid and I’m doing well.
Love you guys! You are the bravest people I know!

July 25, 2023
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

Yes, not about my Psoriasis, but definitely about Osteoarthritis vs PSA. They have no idea.

July 8, 2023
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

I am of similar opinion on surgery although I had torn meniscus surgery that I have never regretted and surgery on arm (no choice I had broken humerus)
I cannot take Methotrexate because it reacts with medication I have taken for a number of years for another medical condition. I am glad you are doing well Phyllis Denman!

July 27, 2023
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

@BettyDeBiase, I just had hand and feet x-rays, she told me I have OA too. I knew that I had it in my spine but just thought my hands were PSA, she is sending me for MRI's just to verify. I have a lot of mobility issues in the hands with pain and always dropping things due to the fact I cannot hold on to anything. Are you experiencing extreme in that area too? Thank you and hope you feel better:)

July 20, 2023

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A MyPsoriasisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Lafayette, LA