Confused about results - 2nd opinion?
Hi all -
I suspect, as does my derm that I have PsA symptoms. He referred me to a rheumy that he highly recommends, since I'm not currently having severe skin symptoms. Dr did xrays of my feet, hips, hands, lumbar spine and sacroiliac joints. She found regular degenerative arthritis in my feet and in my hips and 2 compressed discs in my lower back, which she said is basically normal for my age of 50. My feet are incredibly painful and swell throughout the day, as do my calves. My hips and low back are painful when sitting all day and when I wake up. My inflammation markers were low. She doesn't feel any of my results are indicative of PsA. To me, I feel like based on my symptoms, I do have PsA. I've got fatigue, my big toe joint is swollen and sore (she said it's a bone spur and regular arthritis). She offered an MRI on my back if I wasn't feeling better - which I'm not - but said by no means is in an emergency to get one. I'm thinking I should seek a second opinion, right?
Hi Jeejee, the PsA diagnosis process can be long and convoluted and it often takes more than one doctor to fully figure it out. If you feel like the doctor missed something, and it sounds like you do, then you should absolutely seek a second opinion. I thought you might be buoyed by this article in your search for a diagnosis: https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/living/proper-diagnosis/. You're not alone here. -Martha (Psoriatic-Arthritis.com Team)
Thanks!
Hello
, like Martha said, diagnosis is often a lengthy and difficult process and like you, I had to seek a second opinion. It is difficult to identify the damage to joints, especially if your foot pain is fairly "recent." For some, it can take some time to have the joint damage be visible on an X-ray. At least with an MRI, it can detect inflammation that you may be experiencing. In either case, it is your right to ask questions until you feel comfortable with the answers. We are here to support you! -Leanne, (Psoriatic-Arthritis.com Team)
