RA Question about deformity

CoffeeCake75

Hello, I was diagnosed with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis in 2021. I've been on methetrexate and sulfasalazine.(Meth was 4 tablets, but was increased to 6 tablets in Feb this year).

A month or two ago I was diagnosed also with a dupuytrens contracture at the drs surgery, and that it can run secondary to r.a. When I saw the rheumatologist this week, he thinks there is possible ra damage to the finger joints? I've got to have an ultrascan on my hands in the beginning of January. My esr has risen in this time too (I'm sorry, I don't know the number, just told it's a bit high). I am so worried about all of this.

My question is can damage happen so quickly, even on medication? I understand deformities can happen, but I assumed it would be years down the road. Of course it could be just the dupuytrens…but the fact the rhumy thinks damage has made me feel there must be.

I've been on steroid tablets for 3 days, and I was hoping somehow my fingers would magically bend, but no. I'm just so worried about it all.

Naomi33

Morning @CoffeeCake75 and welcome to the online community.

Sorry to hear your concerns about seropositive rheumatoid arthritis and dupuytrens.

The following link maybe of interest….

https://www.versusarthritis.org/research/our-research-impact/live-research-projects/dupuytren-s-contracture-identifying-the-proteins/

I was diagnosed with Pallindromic Rheumatiod Arthritis then a year later Osteoarthritis in my hands and elbows so yes I do believe it can happen quickly with or without medication.

I am sure others will connect with you soon.

Best wishes @Naomi33

creAte

@CoffeeCake75

We are all unique on that journey. Indeed here damages have happened super fast.

1st pain in one knee/middle of knee, started out of nowhere in February this year 2024.

Then next...

March, right hand started to hurt too much.

Next knee started Mid-June.

That was funny because as I entered an hospital/an appointment as hand was swollen & hurting very much + knee was very painful, I thought as I entered hospital: as least I have 1 good knee. … no idea, within 2 hours after leaving hospital 2nd knee started to hurt a lot out of nowhere!!

I can't help but find that funny, one has to laugh at one own self & own thoughts.

Diagnosed seronegative RA July this year 2024.

Now at a stage/damages: right hand + 2 knees, left elbow, both feet, neck, spine.

Now I realise that previous year mid-May 2023, I had to go to emergency due to spine hell and that was when it most probably all began. Before that: total zero health problems.

I actually don't worry, something to do with own logic. Life is perceived as 1 day at a time. Only the 'now'. Past is gone forever & any future has not arrived yet & no idea what it might bring or not. So: just the 'now'.

Gentle 75 cakes sent your way and a big cup of delicious coffee to enchant and encourage your senses and inner well-being.

CoffeeCake75

Thankyou so much for your replies CreAte and Naomi.😊