Question:
For the last eight months I have been suffering from arthritis
symptoms. My Rheumatoid Specialist is not sure whether it is mosquito
related or just plain old rheumatoid arthritis (?)
Blood tests were carried out some months ago but were inconclusive.
If it's mosquito related I can put up with it as I know the bouts of
arthritis will lessen over time. However, if it is rheumatoid
arthritis I would like some treatment as at the moment I cannot even
drive the car to the nearest town, so far have had 2 anti steroid
injections in my shoulders which have not helped.
Has anyone else had problems with diagnosis? I feel a lack of
confidence in my doctor.
BTW Ross River Fever and other related mosquito related viruses (which
have arthritis symptoms) are becoming a problem in Australia. Ross
River Fever is prevalent in the North of Australia and is slowly
spreading down the East Coast. I live on the mid north coast of New
South Wales. The virus is spread by mosquitoes in areas where there
are rivers and mangrove swamps, another criteria is the presence of
host animals such as kangaroos, wallabies etc. This pretty much
describes where I live.
Answer:
I sincerely hope it turns our to be caused by mosquito born rheum. I
didn't realise you had that sort of this in Aus, but with mangrove swamps
should have realised that the possibility was there. I have visited
Sydney (week), Brisbane (3 days) and Cairns (4 days) and environs.
Lots of times it is difficult to diagnose exactly what type of arthritis
one has, you just have to try and be patient. Although you decide that
your dr just doesn't cut the mustard, then you must find a better one.
