Has anyone been diagnosed with Seronegative Arthritis? My research is

I was diagnosed with Reactive Arthritis (ReA) which is a seronegative inflammatory arthritis. It was diagnosed in my early 30's so typically people are diagnosed at a younger age. There are many forms of inflammatory arthritis. They all have slightly different characteristics. However the defining characteristics "overlap" so they are difficult to differentiate one from another.

How the symptoms of seronegative inflammatory arthritis differ from PMR is hard to describe. It is crucial that people get the right diagnosis because PMR is treated with long term Prednisone while there are better options for seronegative inflammatory arthritis.

You're asking a very complicated question. I should know the difference because I have both PMR and seronegative inflammatory arthritis. I think it is better for me to say seronegative inflammatory arthritis and PMR have more of the same characteristics than different characteristics.

It is so hard to get through each day, especially mornings, when you’re in constant pain. I thought if the diagnosis changes, maybe the treatment would too.

A year ago my diagnosis went from chronic pain and fibromyalgia to PMR due to my constant high CRP and SED rates. All rheumatoid factors were normal, which they have been for years. I was on 20 mg prednisone for 3 months when I stared with major kidney decline, osteoporosis, heart failure and pulmonary hypertension. I attempted a rapid taper, but it still took 5 months to taper off. In October, I had added Methotrexate along with/5 mg prednisone per a Rheumy. Within a month, I lost more than half my hair and was super sick. A different Rheumatologist took me off both meds and re-diagnosed me back to chronic pain.
After a month of no meds for what has appeared to one rheumatologist as PMR, my hands turned to claws. This led to an MRI which lead to Seronegative RA. The diagnosis of the month. Who knows what the next doctor will change it to.
Both PMR and SNRA are treated the same. My body HATES prednisone and it causes big problems, but it’s either prednisone or indescribable crippling pain. There just is no in between. Hopefully my kidneys, heart, lungs and bones will accept this lower dose because I have no other choice.
I’m a silversmith and I cut and polish my own stones. It’s my lifeline, where I draw peace. I can’t do that now, at least for the last 3 months. It’s discouraging and mentally devastating. I’m having a difficult time with acceptance and grieve the loss of my livelihood and joy. It’s hard to not just give up.
Please remember this horrific pain is only right now. Our doctors will find the right medications, but it will take time. God bless and keep you. I know how hard it is, but hold your course, remission is possible. I hope.
Terri

I’m so sorry you’ve had to live with such pain. Has anyone discussed with you biologic? I take an infusion every four weeks and it seems to be helping.

Dr Sarah Mackie in the UK has done some work in this area. Mentioned in thsi video.

Basically, the major difference in treatment is not to use steroids for any type of RA unless mecessary short-term, so methtrexate, or Hydroxychloroquine or similar initially