Finally a Dx | Arthritis Information

 

My PCP decided to go ahead and diagnosed Reactive Arthritis. She thinks it stemmed from a strep infection that I didn't know I had. I know nothing about this type of arthritis except it is an abnormal immune response to the strep and caused an arthritis to flare.

Supposedly it goes away in 6 months to a year and I am in my 7th month so I may still get a 2nd opinion if I am not feeling better soon. Still a better Dx than RA as ReA doesn't cause the permanent joint damage that RA does. I have all the symptoms of RA though but my labs are just not as elevated as they think they'd be in RA. hrmmm

I honestly don't know anything except that I feel bad, but am glad that my PCP was not like the Rheumy who thought it was in my head and if I lost weight I'd feel better. That guy still ticks me off.

This is by far not over with though. Hopefully I can find some info on this Reactive Arthritis and get some relief.
good for you!!  a DX of ReA and NOT RA is a positive...  I hope that you continue to feel better and better.. you have dear little ones that will keep you busy and you need the strength to be there..

That's what I am afraid of, because it has been 7 months and I am  still flaring and feeling worse and worse, not better. I am def. going to keep tabs on it and keep writing in my pain journal and keep taking my temp. (I have been running a low grade fever off and on this whole time) I am so glad you finally got a dx. and here's to hoping *fingers crossed* and praying it is ReA
and not RA as the DR has said. That would be such a blessing for you.
Keep us posted.Ahhh, they treat reactive arthritis with antibiotics.  Did she put you on some? Hope the DX of reactive is correct- hurray! Hope you are suddenly cured and this will all be a faded memory for you! No, all I am on is Relafen and Tylenol Arthritis. well that is good news. Congratulations, and another strep connection.  I hope you start to get some relief from the medications your doctor has you on.  Take care ~~ CathyA sweet friend of mine had that... she's a diabetic and cut a finger on a tuna can. Diabetics are more suceptible to infection, so one of her finger joints got infected. Next thing ya know, she's hurting allover. She really had a rough go of things. Ended up in the hospital for an extended period of time. Getting treatment and the correct diagnosis is key and you've done that! YAY! Hope you feel better soon.Jennimom -
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