Symptoms | Arthritis Information

Hi, I've been taking plaquenil for an undiagnosed rheumatoid condition for 2 years. Within the last week it feels like it has quit working. Today I am suffering from terrible aching in my fingers, hands, wrists, arms and shoulders. I have been fighting depression for the last 10 years but, have been doing well on medication. Within the last two weeks I have had a terrible bout of depression. Not knowing what is wrong with me is a huge part of it.

Can anyone share their symptoms prior to being diagnosed with RA and any new symptoms since being diagnosed.

Also, if you could share with me how long you suffered from symptoms before a diagnosis was given. I'm just curious how long I may have to wait to have this figured out.

Thank you in advance.

Hi Jen,

Sorry to hear about the pain and depression.

I'd suggested some reading about symptoms and diagnosis here: http://rawarrior.com/do-i-have-rheumatoid-arthritis/

In my example, I had "unknown" symptoms for about a year, nodules started on fingers, just generally painful and stiff all of which I attributed to lack of exercise, age, etc. Then my hands and feet swelled tremendously, for about a month, and I went to the doctor. The diagnosis was immediate, they called back 2 days later. The first step was anti-pain / anti-inflamation medicines (Celebrex, Ibuprofen) which helped take the symptoms away a bit after a few weeks. And then the pain moved to my elbows and knees, where it never was before.

Then comes the heavy duty drugs, called DMARDs and Biologics. These seem to be helping after a few weeks.

Roland

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