What does a “flare” look like?
Over the last two years, I have been experiencing periods of time (about 3-4 days) of extreme joint swelling, joint pain, horrible body rash. To the point where I can hardly walk. It’s takes me out of commission for at least 3-4 days. I went to my PCP and she said she wanted to order blood test for RA. I am still waiting for the test results. Does this at all sound like any symptoms folks with RA would have? All of the joint swelling/pain is the same on each side.
After thirty plus years of RA I can say that what the disease looks like can be pretty much anything from person to person. I know that’s not the definitive answer you are looking for, but it is true, unfortunately. The joint stuff certainly sounds like RA, and rashes can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis, although it is less of a common thing. Let’s wait until the tests come back and we can go from there. Just know that we aren’t going anywhere and you are not alone. We will help however we can, that is one thing I can assure you of. Let us know as soon as you hear. Keep on keepin’ on, DPM
Hi,
! I just want to echo what Daniel already shared. He pretty much covered it, but I wanted to chime in and say that I know the wait for test results can seem interminable! You just want an answer!
I hope that answer comes quickly and that whatever it is, your doctor has some great tips and treatment ideas ready to discuss with you.
And like Daniel wrote, we're here to support you!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.
Hi
. I noticed that you mentioned you were seeing your PCP. It is great that they are doing initial bloodwork, but the one thing I would add to what Daniel and Erin said is about the value of seeing a rheumatologist to get the proper diagnostics. There is a significant amount that goes into a diagnosis and this article from our editorial team gives an overview of the process: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/diagnosis. Hope this information is helpful and please feel free to keep us posted on how you are doing. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team) - I am meeting with my PCP, hopefully she can refer me to a rheumatologist! I’m not sure if I can just see a rheumatologist without a referral from my PCP. Hi
. Yes, depending on insurance that is often the case. In case your rheumatoid factor comes back negative and if your symptoms persist, I want to share with you this article about seronegative RA: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/seronegative-diagnosis. Up to 1/3 of RA cases are seronegative, so if you still need to ask for a referral this may help. Plus, a rheumatologist can help with diagnosing many of the alternatives as well. Wishing you the best. Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
Thank you for that link! My RA came back < 10, my ANA test came back < 40, my CRP was 57.8, which is high, if I’m understanding it correctly. So I’m not sure what will happen or what my PCP will suggest. I have yet to meet with her.
You’re welcome! I hope your next meeting goes well and you start to find some relief soon. -Effie, team member
