Rheumatoid Arthritis

[wurlywurly]

Does anyone know if i can get any finacial help if im diagnosed with this??

I have had hand problems for the past 5 years, but have had a couple of operations and was hoping everthing was on the mend. My hands and fingers have been very stiff and achy and mave been putting off seeing the doctor, gave in and saw him last night and he confirmed what my hospital consultant thought which is Rheumatoid Arthritis, now i have to go for a blood test (also have to ds1 for a blood test but thats on a different thread). Was really hoping to get back to work soon, but it reality i really dont think its gonna happen, have days at the moment where i cant bend my fingers!!

Can i cliam DLA or incapacity benefit??

maybe i've posted in the wrong place??

Initially you can get a form from your GP that they part fill in and this gives you Incapacity Benefit if they feel you are unable to work and I think it kicks in after any sickness pay you may get from your work ends.

Further down the line the Benefits Agency will contact you direct but as I said, ask your GP for the form first of all.

I think you should start a claim for DLA now, have look here , give them a ring and ask! I don't think a claim can be back dated.

was getting incapicity benefit before when i was first diagnosed with have tendon problems, then when Mr Blair decided to cut back on people claiming it i had to go for a medical and they deemed me fit for work even tho i dont have any proper grip in my hands. Ive since been diagnosed with carpal tunnel in both hands and have had both hands operated on, and really wanted to get back to work, but what job can i do where i dont have to use my hands a lot??

wurlywurly - if you are diagnosed with RA it doesn't mean you won't be able to work again. My DH was diagnosed in October 2005. He started on salazopyrin and has been symptom free for the last 6 months and can use his hands again.