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Question & Answer

We are discussing The Self Management of Arthritis
With Graeme Rossiter, Elizabeth Scrivener and Sally Ranford

Question:
Has anyone ever had any trouble with their jaw? I went to the doctor with mine, it only hurts when I eat and at night, he says its arthritis but I don't know, surely it doesn't come on suddenly without any warning.

Answer:
Elizabeth - There are over 100 different forms of arthritis which can affect any part of our skeletal system. We are all familiar with the more prevalent forms such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

However, your GP may have diagnosed a form of infectious or inflammatory arthritis which can be caused by having had some unrelated infection previously. I suggest you talk over your concerns with your GP and ask for more information about your diagnosis.

Have you been sent for any tests? If not, it may be appropriate to ask for further investigation so that appropriate treatment can be given and other causes for the pain in your jaw, such as dental problems, can be ruled out.

Once you have a clearer diagnosis, you may also like to contact your local Arthritis Foundation for support, or phone their National Information Line on 1800 011 041 for more information

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