Help with Pain! | Arthritis Information

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Hello,

 
I am new to this forum and am hoping to get some support!  I was unofficially diagnosed with RA a few months back.  I was seen at a community clinic for severe pain in my hands and feet (and sometimes up to the arms and back), as well as visible joint inflamation and swelling.  They tested my RH levels and they were high.  I was put on prednisone (temporarily) and referred to a rheumatologist, to make the official diagnosis and set up a treatment plan. 
 
The problem is, the earliest appointment I could get was August 3.  Now, the prednisone is gone, and the pain is horrible.  I can barely walk and work is becoming very hard.  No over-the-counter meds seem to work.  I am being careful of what I eat (e.g. no sugars, refined carbs, etc), but I can't seem to beat the pain. 
 
Can anyone offer any suggestions?  I do not have insurance either, so it woudl be hard to make a sooner appointment at a smaller clinic, for example. 
 
Thank you!
Well,
 
You need to call the doctor that prescribed the prednisone. He knows that you aren't supposed to just stop prednisone. Have him/her write you a rx for prednisone. If you weren't getting good relief from the dosage, ask if he'll raise the dose. Keep us informed.
 
LEV

I did get relief from the prednisone, but now that I am off it (and yes I was weened/tapered off it), the pain is back.  The doctor is very hesitant to prescribe more prednisone.  Trying to get through the red tape of a community clinic has been difficult! 

I suggest you not hesitate to bother that hesitant doctoer. If he/she really believes that you are afflicted with ra, he/she understands how painful it is and how to alleviate. I also suggest you try ibuprophen (motrin) (advil). Bother the doc.
 
LEV

Ha ha.  Thanks!  I took your advice and bothered the doc (well the doc's nurse).  Again, very hesitant, and quite rude if you ask me!  ;)  Am waiting for the phone call after she speaks with the doctor. 

P.S. Advil, Motrin, Alleve, Aspirin, etc....nothing seems to help at all!I'm not a big fan of dis-respectful nurses. I would give her some slack. Maybe over worked? None the less, you may need her later, be nice. Be sure to bring on the tears if you have to to get the drugs. Good luck.
 
LEV
You must be persistent!  If that doesn't work, find a doctor who will work with you.  Also, you may try a teaching hospital for treatment.  Good luck!


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