Hello Natalie,

There are over 170 types of arthritis so if you think you have one of
them you really need to work with your doctor to address the problem
or rule it out. There are vary many URL's on the net just do a google
(or other search engine) search on the word "arthritis". I notice you
posted via google but from janet so assume you are from the UK?
If so and you are in pain, your GP has a duty to treat you for that
pain. He/she? can do many things to try and find out what is causing
it, blood tests is a usual first step. If your symptoms continue he
may then refer you to a RD (Rheumatologist) standard wait about 3
months (NHS) or 1 month private, depending on area.

For now, I'll include an online RD site which is a excellent read,
it's that of Dr Doc in South Africa:
http://www.arthritis.co.za/default.htm

Tell us more about yourself and what your symptoms are/how long you
have had them etc?

Andy
(also from UK aged 43 with RA)