Think it's the onset of arthritis, any advice?

[costagirl]

Family history of it, I'm afraid, my Mum has replaced knees (yes both at the same time), and hip. I'm in a lot of pain down one arm and into my hand/fingers - quite a hot sort of pain, in the joints. Nagging sort of pain that makes me feel a bit sick and irritable. Noticed how much it hurt lifting a saucepan full of veg today.

Is there any point going to the GP? I get the feeling they'll just give me some anti-inflammotories, which I've never found particularly useful. Would quite like a proper assessment eg x ray, but get the feeling I'll be fobbed off with tablets. Anyone had similar or found anything that helps?

Sorry for typo - inflammatories.

Request blood tests to check for rheumatoid arthritis.

Family history here too, so GP has done tests on me.

I have recently been diagnosed with RA but I also have thyroid problems which could also be the cause and I don't think this avenue has been explored properly.

Since the anti-flammatories have had unpleasant side effects I've stopped taking them; the pain was preferable. For the past three months I've been taking Glucosamine & Chondroitin and also EPA which I think just which good old paracetamol is taking the edge off

Ok, thanks for that. Think I will go and have a chat with GP. It's a bugger, isn't it!