I am so confused. About 2 years ago I had a major drug problem and decided to get my life back. After 3 months of being drug and alcohol free I noticed my left knee swelling. I went to the ER and they did some tests and sent me on my way. 5 doctors later I am left with no answers and alot of "we aren't sure." None of my RA tests have come back positive enough to diagnose me. The swelling is in both knees now and can get so big that it looks like a grapefruit is under my skin. That's when it hurts. I don't even bother with having it drained anymore, it never lasts long at all. They have put me on plaqunil, methotrixate, and given me numerous cortisone shots. Nothing works. The swelling has a mind of its own. I try to blame the weather, but it's not ever consistent with my symtoms. Other then the knee swelling I feel fine. No problems at all. My jaw and left elbow have a tiny bit of pain from time to time, but that is it. I am starting to think my drug use is part of what caused this. Does anyone have any idea as to what might help me with the swelling or a direction I could possible go in.
Have you seen an arthritis doctor? The bursa in your knee may be the problem. I had this about ten years ago. After they drained the knee so many times the doc did a laposcopic exam on them and found the bursa sack had to be removed.
Good luck and good for you for kicking the drugs and alchol.
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