Arthritis. Why dont doctors believe me?

[Heatherjayne1972]

Been having pain in my fingers and toes for years Swollen joints and pain
So I see GP who said it was the weather! A different GP said it was my thyroid ( I have been on thyroid tablets for years) third GP sent me for X-rays /blood test- all clear so didn't want to take it further changed practice now GP no4 has said is just 'wear and tear ' not one of them has offered pain relief My finger is bent out of shape and another is swollen
Not sure where I go from here feel so fobbed off and in pain
Anyway Moan over- where next. New GP ? Go back and complain ?

[Lovelyideas]

Bumping for you

[tuliparcher]

Can you get a referral or self refer to a hand therapist? Physio & Occupational Therapy have them.

[Heatherjayne1972]

Didn't know you could self refer
Is that a thing? What do they do?

[FancyPuffin]

You need a referral to Rheumatology.

I would make another appointment with the GP and insist ask to be referred.

It really is worth pushing for the referral, I have permanant damage in my right hand and wrist due to delays in getting medication for rheumatoid Arthritis.

[Pandsbear]

Try presenting the NICE guidelines to the GP here
Ask to be referred as it is the small joints in your hands. You can have RA with negative bloods (sero-negative RA). Even if it is osteoarthritis then there are anti-inflamms and painkillers and physio etc.