Is this RA pain or AS pain? I was diagnosed with both at the same time and I don't know difference.

Oh, boy, .

That's a million dollar question. I know we have some folks here with multiple diagnoses and I wouldn't be surprised if we have other members with both RA and AS (autoimmune conditions do like to travel in packs). I think you will be the best expert on discerning which pain is relate to RA and which is related to AS. There are some differences in where the pain may occur, so that might be a good place to start. Here's some information (that I bet you already know, but I'll share it here, ust in case) from our sister site dedicated to AS about AS pain -- https://axialspondyloarthritis.net/symptoms/pain. And, here is some information on RA pain -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/symptoms/joints-pain. I think treating pain comes down to a few common methods when it comes to autoimmune conditions, such as NSAIDS, steroids, ice/heat therapy, etc. Of course, those are for managing already existing pain and inflammation and not the underlying cause. DMARDS and biologics are meant to get to the root of the cause and control it, but we both know that's not always the case. So, the treatments are similar and the presentations of pain can also be similar. If you start using an app to track your symptoms or even an old fashioned journal, you might start to notice a pattern and you might be able to discern which condition is behind the pain.

I know this isn't totally helpful, but I do hope it gives you some ideas and that other members see your post and chime in!

Best, Erin, Team Member.

Hi . On top of the excellent information from Erin, I want to note that there are a number of biologics that treat both RA and axial spondylitis. This article lists those that treat RA: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment/biologics and this one lists those that treat AS: https://axialspondyloarthritis.net/treatment/biologics-biosimilars. I thought this information might be helpful for conversations with your doctor on treating both conditions. Best, Richard (Team Member)