Does anyone have an idea of what stage of RA I may be in?
I was diagnosed about 6-7 months ago at the age of 22 but I was actually pregnant than so couldn't get treatment or get testing done to see how bad it was. I delivered in July and am having a hard time getting into a rheumatologist. So that's why I wanted to know if anyone possibly knew what stage I may be in based off of my symptoms: Pain in hands, elbows, shoulders, ankles, knees, feet and hips. My hands are always swollen. It's hard for me to sleep at night and is very painful as well ESPECIALLY in the morning.
I have servere stiffness in the morning. I am also loosing strength in my hands I have to have my co-workers and family help me open things and it hurts very bad to get up out of bed in the mornings and also when I sit down and stand up. My middle fingers on both hands look like they are starting to slant to the side DOES ANYONE HAVE A CLUE OF WHAT STAGE OF RA I MAY POSSIBLY BE IN UNTILL I CAN GET INTO A RHEUMATOLOGIST?
23Tahara,
So sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis and all the symptoms you are experiencing, we are glad you reached out to us. I understand how difficult it can be to live the day to day pain, fatigue and stiffness associated with RA. You are not alone in your symptoms here and I hope we can provide you with some support and information. While we cannot offer medical advice, (for your safety) I thought this article might be helpful in understanding the stages and progression of RA: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/what-is-ra/stages-and-progression/
Additionally, others in the community may chime in with some support and information.
Do you know if there are any other rheumatologist in your area that you may be able to see sooner? Here is a helpful link to find more in your area, if you would like. http://www.rheumatology.org/Directories/Find-a-rheumatologist
Please check back wtih us and let us know how you make out. We will be thinking of you. Reach out anytime.
Gentle Hugs,
Lauren (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)Thank you for those kind and helpful words
Sorry to hear about the diagnosis 23Tahara, but glad you have come to a place that you can get support and information. On top of the great information from Lauren, I just wanted to point out that in many ways an actual stating of what stage you may be in may not be as important as an assessment of how you are feeling. My wife, Kelly Mack (a contributor here), was diagnosed at two and, thus, has her share of RA damage (treatments were not nearly as advanced then). In this article on assessing wellness she notes how at every appointment her rheumatologist "begins our visit with the same question every time: 'Kelly, how are you?' He doesn’t look at bloodwork first or the computer screen. He looks into my eyes, examining my face. He is trying to assess how I am feeling:" https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/assessing-wellness/. Hopefully your medical team can treat you to live the best life possible. Know that you are always welcome here for information and support. Wishing you the best. Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
Thank you for those kind and helpful words
