I've been reading over these forums for the last few weeks, and thought I would post. I've just recently been diagnosed with RA (diagnosis coupled with RF test), and I have a couple of questions. I know this is a..bitter topic, but I was wondering if someone could delve into what I can expect over the next few years (generally, I know everyone is different). My doctor didn't exactly go into detail (about as much detail as one would get when they have the flue).
I am 27, I have been experiencing pain/stiffness in my toes, and hands (knuckles, and finger joints, but I had thought it was just normal or carpal tunnell) for a few years now along with previously inexplicable fatigue. Now its starting to bother my elbows, my knees, and my hips.
I am also worried, vainly, about the beginnings of some noticeable finger drift...any information you all might give, would be helpfull.
Welcome...I know someone here will be able to answer your questions. I am newly dx, so I don't have any answers for you.
Welcome and ask away!
Phatgirl
Hello and welcome!! Sorry you have to be here but im glad you found us. Feel free to ask anything, no matter how small or dificult the question may be there is someone here that can help.
What kinds of medications is your doctor treating you with?
Hi there,I don't know yet, to be honest. My doctor informed me over the phone when I had to reschedule my return checkup, the original test and discussion happened a couple of months ago. I am supposed to come in to the doctor on the 27th of this month to discuss my "options," I am hoping she will go into more detail.
I don't know, before this the last time I had been to the doctor was for the flue, six years ago. The last time I had a real checkup/bloodwork was for a flight physical when I was 18.
She's more concerned about my triglycerite level than the RA though.
WelcomeI am sure someone else will be along soon to help you with your question.
I just wanted to say hello and welcome!
Welcome.
Most people newly dx (who have not been in trouble a decade) do pretty well.
Sounds like you have had it for a while but have not had a major flare. Makes you sound like a mild to moderate.
You can expect a script for an nsaid like ibuprofen or aleve. I hope she starts you out on plaquinal and maybe even minocyclen as a dmard (disease modifying anti-rhuematic drug). Ask you doc to be treated so that damage can be minimized.
Also hang on to your health insurance - with an RA dx you can't buy a private policy any more.
Welcome, it is really something to have this at 27, yet there are younger folks, I'm sure. Your doc will give you a guideline, a roadmap to make sure your joints, vital organs won't be damaged without care. the stiffness, some fatigue is part of this and we all experience it in diff joints and intensity. Mine stared with the bottomes of my feet, the into my hands, knuckels. I was able to carry on with sports (tennis ladies team and competitive golf, even) maybe not a flexable as before I had it, but what the hey! Now, I'm in a different place because of heart surgery in Dec. , nothing to do with RA. I took plaquinel at first the methotrexate in various strengths depending on control/ or flare up (that's what we call beein' really really stiff and hurting. I'm better now because of the super meds , remicade, mtx and prednisone) Good luck on sorting this out for yourself. It takes trial (and error) to see what 'works' for you. For 10 years I was real stable on methotrexate. Take care, feelingbetter.
Hi and welcome. I'm still in the process of finding a group of meds to slow down this RA so the one thing that I can offer is to have patience. A good relationship with your Dr. is also a great big help. Mine is superb. Are you seeing a rheumy?
Take care and hope your appt. goes well.
It sounds like this is your regular physician if her main concern is not theWisescarab,
You can expect the wildiest rollercoaster ride you have ever been on. Close your eyes, hang on tight, you'll be just fine and RA and it's effects and pain will just become a normal part of life. Strange as it seems, we just get used to it.
LEV
PS Keep a good attitude about it.
Hello and Welcome. I am new to all this too. Just search online. You will learn so much that way. And, I would agree with others that you need a rheumatologist to treat this. Ask for a referal.
I also understand your concerns over your hands and deformity. I have them too. I play the flute and keyboard and couldn't live without that joy and comfort every week! I won't go down without a fight, anyway!
And, you need to get started on treatment now to slow the progression of the disease. That will help save your hands as well.!
Good luck and keep posting!
Hi wisecrab and welcome
I'm in the UK so not sure how the system works in the US. My GP referred me to a rheumatologist who in turn referred me to physical and occupational therapists. The OT teaches a range of hand exercises to strengthen the fingers to give them a good chance of staying where they should be. It's important to minimise the amount of stress you put on your fingers especially with a task that forces them to the side, eg check how you hold the kettle and saucepans - is there a way you can handle it to minimise finger strain? I fill the kettle with a small jug then use both hands to lift it to the tea pot - actually, don't literally fill the kettle. Once you become mindful of your fingers during day to day tasks you will be amazed at how easy it is to make changes. Most important, don't excercise when you have pain or you will run the risk of damage.
I'm not saying OT excercises will give you perfect hands for the rest of your life but they will give them a good chance.
Welcome wisescarab-