Does this sound like RA?
I am 38. 2 weeks ago I woke up to my right hand swollen. A little later it was left too. The next day pain in the hands and feet.
For 4 days it came AND went throughout the day. I was put on prednisone and all went away. As soon as I stopped in one day, symptoms started coming back. But this time with redness over boney parts of hands and toes.
Went back to the doctor. She said blood work was fine, maybe autoimmune, and I needed to go to a rheumatologist.
Now I am on NSAIDS with some relief but not much. Now fatigue has hit hard and can barely clean. Also dryness and cracking over knuckles. And before this, I was having blurry vision trouble remembering things a little chest pain. Have nausea also. But pain is localized in the mid-back right now.
Help?? What is going on???
Hi
, welcome! Sorry you're experiencing these symptoms.
One note is that we can't provide medical advice over the internet, for your safety. But others who have had similar symptoms may weigh-in with their perspective that could be another point of reference.
You mentioned visiting a rheumatologist. Did that appointment happen already? Also, your initial doctor said the bloodwork came back fine. You already be aware, but with rheumatoid arthritis, there is a condition called seronegative. You can read more about it below, but essentially, negative blood work results don't necessarily rule out RA. https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/seronegative-diagnosis/
- Reggie (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member)No my appt isn't till 5 months. In do much pain and fatigue. I can't handle this whats most effective treatment for pain and fatigue
Well first I just want to say that I recognize you're tired and in pain. It's a really difficult state to be in. I really applaud you doing the right things (like making an appointment) and also connecting with others (like here on the forum).
I'm sharing an article on ideas to combat the fatigue. You'll find some of the ideas will work better than others so it may take some trial and error to find what works for you personally. But it's a great list that can help! https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/symptoms/fatigue-and-weakness/
As far as the pain, one of our community advocates shares a GREAT list of ideas for pain treatment. It would be easier if it was a one-size-fits-all approach, but there are some great ideas in here and they also explain the why behind the pain too. https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/ra-pain-management-tips/
Please let me know if you have other questions. I really hope this helps!
-Reggie (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member)
No waiting to be accepted as patient. Having stomach pain bad maybe side effect of one of medicines. Also just in and out of ER try notvto go. Spend most days crying wandering what is going on with my body. I am struggling.
@LB3 I have visited with a counselor when the symptoms started to effect my moods and attitude and I found myself in tears often. She really helped me deal with the day to day while awaiting diagnosis and treatment. My employer offered an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that helped pay for a few counseling sessions. I also saw a Physiatrist (diagnoses, manages, and treats pain) who helped treat my pain until I got started with Rheumatology.
