'I just thought it was normal aches and pains': a qualitative study of decision-making processes in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatology
J SheppardK Raza

Abstract

Effective treatment can only be given during the early stages of RA if patients are seen early. However, many patients delay for prolonged periods before seeking medical advice. This study explores factors influencing the decision to seek medical advice in RA patients. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were carried out with 24 patients. Purposive sampling ensured a cross-section in terms of time to presentation, gender, age and ethnic background. Interview transcripts were analysed and themes identified using established methods. Four main themes influenced the decision to seek medical advice: (i) symptom experience: the severity of symptoms and their impact on functional ability; (ii) symptom evaluation: the patient's explanation for their symptoms and recognition of their significance; (iii) knowledge of RA and available therapies; and (iv) experience of and attitudes towards health care providers. A significant and rapid impact of the disease on functional ability characterized those presenting early. Many developed an explanation for their symptoms that related to preceding activities. Recognition that this explanation was inadequate to explain symptom progression frequently prompted a consultation. Only one patient soug...Continue Reading

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Citations

May 25, 2011·International Journal of Nursing Practice·Nicola Cornally, Geraldine McCarthy
Sep 8, 2012·Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases·Jessica A B van NiesAnnette H M van der Helm-van Mil
Feb 4, 2010·Clinical Rheumatology·Sasha BernatskyJennifer Lee
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Sep 5, 2013·Disability and Rehabilitation·Gavin Daker-WhiteRona Campbell
Jun 4, 2014·Health Expectations : an International Journal of Public Participation in Health Care and Health Policy·Rebecca J StackKarim Raza
Oct 1, 2015·Journal of Clinical Nursing·Ju Young Shin, Barbara Habermann
Jul 14, 2009·Best Practice & Research. Clinical Rheumatology·Kanta KumarCaroline Gordon
Aug 20, 2010·Arthritis and Rheumatism·Michael P M van der LindenAnnette H M van der Helm-van Mil
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Aug 25, 2016·BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders·Lucy PowleyKarim Raza
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Jan 30, 2014·International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases·Valerie MilneAndrew Harrison
Oct 18, 2020·International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases·Avinash JainKanta Kumar

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