Reactive arthritis duration

Kate40

Hi all, just wondering whether anyone has experience of reactive arthritis. I’ve been struggling since Sat with swollen and painful joints in ankles, neck and hands. I also have three swollen lymph nodes. Due to this, dr said this morning likely reactive arthritis and to go back in two weeks if no better x can’t bear the thought of this for two more weeks and reading on line that some people go on to suffer much longer :( x

Baloo

@Kate40 unpredictable it is as per the stories, and I would argue the time is very dependant on understanding whats gone sore as your first defence. Incredibly you know things. Logic can prevail in amazing ways. Can you tell what its doing.

Why the feet? All your weight is on your feet. Why your hands and neck? Is the arthritis confused and there was never anything wrong with your hands and neck.

Kate40

Thank you very much for taking the time to respond. Much appreciated. Apologies, but I’m not sure what this means….Is the arthritis confused and there was never anything wrong with your hands and neck.

Baloo

@Kate40 only that I found arthritis feels worse on previous injuries or overloaded joints. In a flare up the arthritis seems to go everywere else as well, which makes it harder to understand why it flared up.

Actually, I kind of hope for you that when your glands settle down then all the rest of it will as well, that would be great.

Kate40

thanks Baloo. Me too. Thinking about my wrists and hands and the only thing I can think of is a sport I’ve played for a number of years, which would make sense x

Ellen

Hi @Kate40 I wonder whether you've read some previous posts by people with Reactive arthritis (ReA)?

https://community.versusarthritis.org/search?query=reactive%20arthritis&scope=site&source=community

Unfortunately we aren't medically qualified to give an opinion, but hope your Dr will help you soon and at the very least suggested something to help in the short term with your pain.

there are some self help tips here:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/managing-symptoms/managing-your-pain/

Oh and many of us recommend taking someone with you when you see a Dr. It can help you with confidence to speak up, remembering what you want to say and what was said to you.

Best wishes

Ellen.

Kate40

thanks Ellen. I had searched Reactive Arthritis but not ReA. That has bought up many more results. Thank you.