How did your RA start? Awaiting diagnosis

Rose86

Hi, I would really appreciate some advice. 3 months ago I experienced a numb tingly arm on & off for a few days & then one morning woke up with shoulder pain such that I couldn't lift it. The next day it was the other arm & the next my ribs ached. I figured I was coming down with something & felt a bit fuzzy-brained - failing at simple tasks. Over the next 3 months I got worse almost daily but the swelling & pain is now mainly in my wrists, fingers (rings no longer fit over knuckles), feet & knees. I have had several visits to the GP & a blood test for the usual markers which came back normal so am now on a waiting list to see a rheumatologist but this could be a very long wait as no appointments are being made.I am in my early 30s so at first thought it was a bit of a lingering virus but this seems too long & all the symptoms match with RA. Did anyone else have pain that started like this with all the switching & so suddenly? I am struggling with work (I work in a lab & it hurts to pipette or unscrew bottles) & driving & though painkillers are helping I wake up dreading what new pain I might have. It's really affecting me mentally. Please help.

Anna

Hello @Rose86 and welcome to our online community.

It sounds like you are dealing with a lot of pain and not knowing the reason why must make it more difficult to bear. Many members on the forum have RA and though there may be some similarities in symptoms - mine started with joint pain that switched from one joint to the other - the only real way to find out is by having the appropriate tests, so you're doing the right thing by seeing a rheumatologist.

It's a pity that appointments are being held up during the current situation - I wonder if you spoke to your GP again if they might be able to contact the hospital on your behalf?

I can understand how it must be affecting you mentally and I'm sure other members will be able to give you support online, but if you want to speak to someone the Versus Arthritis helpline is open Monday–Friday from 9am–8pm. The advisors aren't medically trained and aren’t able to offer you individual medical advice but they can give you tailored support as well as lend a listening and sympathetic ear. The number is 0800 5200 520 and here's the link for more information:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/get-help/helpline/

Best wishes, and do let us know how you are getting on.

Anna :-)

Rose86

Thanks @Anna, it's really helpful to hear from people with similar problems and read about how they manage their pain. It makes me feel less lonely in this very unprecedentedly lonely time :)