Profiles

Here, you can find any of the interviews on this site.



Interview 38

Diagnosed 2 years ago but symptoms for 4 years. Currently on no medication but did take Sulphasalazine for 5 months before stopping because of side-effect of flaky skin. She has also had steroid joint injections and taken NSAIDs.

  • Background

    Child minder, married with 2 children

  • Age at interview 47
  • Sex/Gender Female

    • Interview 36

    Diagnosed 1979 as a young child. Currently on Methotrexate 10mg & folic acid, tramadol 100mg 2/day, solpadol 7/day. 2 hips and 2 knees replaced under spinal anaesthetic in succession over 2 years. Broken femur complication of last knee operation.

  • Background

    Not employed. Single lives at home with parents

  • Age at interview 28
  • Sex/Gender Female

    • Interview 35

    Polymyalgia Rheumatica diagnosed 2000 and various doses of oral steroids taken for 2 years. Swollen hand prompted visit to Rheumatologist Dec 2003 when RA diagnosis made. Depomedrone injection given and once since. Currently only on Fossamax (calcium).

  • Background

    Part-time catering, married with one adult child.

  • Age at interview 70
  • Sex/Gender Male

    • Interview 34

    Diagnosed 1957. Had one of the first knee replacements (R) in 1961 but restricted movement since. First left knee replacement lasted approx 30 years and revision 10 years. 8 toes removed. Has taken Prednisolone (5mg) for 41 years.

  • Background

    Retired clerical worker, widowed with 2 surviving adult children. Diagnosed whilst living abroad with husband and 3 children. Returned home to more moderate climate.

  • Age at interview 78
  • Sex/Gender Female

    • Interview 33

    Juvenile chronic arthritis diagnosed 1990. Initially NSAIDs, then methotrexate but nausea & then oral steroids from age 15. Finger tendon repair & hip replacement (01) Currently Anti-TNF Humira injected 2/month, indometacin, co-codamol & Lansoprazole.

  • Background

    Student, single, no children. Lives at home with mother.

  • Age at interview 21
  • Sex/Gender Female

    • Interview 32

    Diagnosed seronegative RA '97 but symptoms since '77 after flu-like virus. Took Opren but side-effects so chose homeopathy. Mid '90s significant disease progression & began DMARDS, but side-effects. Now 6 weekly Depomedrone injections (120mg), physio & hydrotherapy.

  • Background

    Full time Network Manager for arthritis charity, single, no children.

  • Age at interview 45
  • Sex/Gender Female

    • Interview 31

    Diagnosed '93 after quick onset. Side-effects from various DMARDs. Currently on Enbrel (anti TNFa) twice a week, Brufen retard 2400mg/day, Prednisolone 7.5mg/day and Paracetemol as required. Both elbows replaced (2002) and knee washout operation.

  • Background

    Housewife (previously secretary), married with 3 children (one born since RA diagnosis) and 2 step children.

  • Age at interview 37
  • Sex/Gender Female