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Lisa1973

Hi everyone, I'm Lisa.

Looking for help & advice. I am waiting to see a rheumatologist after finally getting to see my GP. I have terrible pains in my left hand with a nodule on my knuckle which has got bigger. Since seeing my GP 3 weeks ago , my first finger on my right hand has swollen & turned lumpy.

My mood just lately is quite low & sometimes fatigue kicks in to the point l don't want to do anything. Is this normal?

Brynmor

Hi @Lisa1973 welcome to the Online Community.

I understand that you are now waiting to see a rheumatologist after being referred by your GP as you have problems with your hands. This will naturally be upsetting and yes, it can easily be wearing to put up with the pain, causing fatigue and listlessness.

You may like to take a look at our general information on pain in the hands and wrists which has a section on managing your symptoms.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/hand-and-wrist-pain/

Are you having any medical treatment from your GP for this?

In general, keeping muscles exercised will help your body cope with pain. We suggest a range of gentle exercises that can help, but obviously if the joint or muscles are too painful, then you might like to save them for later:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/exercising-with-arthritis/exercises-for-healthy-joints/exercises-for-the-fingers-hands-and-wrists/

Do let us know how you get on, call in for a chat and to say how you are feeling and what works for you.

You will be most welcome.

Best wishes

Brynmor

Lisa1973

Gp has just told me to take ibuprofen or use the gel and book some physio.