RA and Fibromyalgia
For decades I have been diagnosed and treated for Fibromyalgia. Over a year ago I went to a new Rheumatologist for continued treatment of my Fibromyalgia and she tells me that I have RA. And that made me feel so relieved to find that the reason for all of my joint pain was not Fibromyalgia. I am angry that doctors dismissed everything once they heard the word Fibromyalgia. My pain got so extreme that I had to quit working in 2018. Applied for disability and because I originally went to my Rheumatologist for fibromyalgia that is what she put on the disability papers, before diagnosing my RA. Now I can't get her to complete a new form stating that I have RA. She has me trying different medications. So far three of them are out and I am now taking Humira injections every 2 weeks. Can't say that there has been much improvement so far but I've only taken 2 injections. Any advise regarding meds, diagnoses, etc. . . . I am a newbie. Thanks in advance.
Hi Kimmie, I'm sorry you're going through this. Unfortunately, your experience is common for many in this community. Of course it's not always the case, but it happens too frequently. You may have already seen this, but if not a good starting place for treatment is this article. https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatmentIt outlays different treatment options that can be helpful. Ultimately there isn't a one-size-fits-all treatment so a lot of times, it can be a trial and error. You and your doctor will ultimately determine which treatment option is best. I'm also sharing an article from our editorial team about RA diagnosis since you mentioned wanting more information about that: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/diagnosis This is a good starting place. Welcome to the community! Lots of great people here.
-Reggie (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member)
I went through same thing Kimmie! It got so bad I was having flares every 4 days!
