Pain started in my hands then swelling in fingers. Lasted for several weeks. Ankle and lower leg swelling over night - G.P commenced prednisolone 50 mg. Pain and swelling reduced however pain has continued in different areas. Rheumatologist started titrating prednisolone and now I'm not on any.All my bloods came back ok besides B12 defficiency for which I had injections for months. G.P thinks it's seronegative RA. I have IBS and chronic pelvic nerve pain and and wear a Norspan patch for that as well as take Tramal PRN.
Pain is in my hands mainly fingers - end joints, balls of feet and toe joints. The worst is the rib and sternum pain. I was told years ago i had costochondritis but I don't think so. I am tired all the time doesn't matter how much sleep I have. Sometimes I have to pull over the car to sleep for 20 mins.I am stiff and sore in the mornings. I used to be very fit and active now I feel drained and old.
The Rheumatologist wants me to have an MRI and blood tests when the swelling returns in my hands. Trouble is the appt has to be booked weeks in advance and the swelling may not be there on that day. As much as I would prefer not to have the RA diagnosis at least i'd know what im dealing with. I see the Rheumatologist in May if she doesn't agree with the diagnosis of my G.P i'm back to square one. I just want answers so I can be on an appropriate treatment program. I'm so tired of putting on a brave face at work and with my Family when I feel so awful. Any suggestions would be appreciated - thanks in advance for letting me vent, gentle hugs to all