21 year old potential RA diagnosis

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rle
rle Member Posts: 6
edited 18. Jan 2012, 08:41 in Say Hello Archive
Hello,
I am 21 and have suspected rheumatoid arthritis. I have muscle pain and joint stiffness in my knees, left arm, lower back and occassional neck and hand stiffness. I have had a blood test for RA which says that i have tested positive for rheumatoid factor -i have also had x rays and am now on the waiting list to see a specialist. I feel like i am in limbo and I have not really been able to talk to anybody about it so i do not know if the blood tests essentially mean that I do have RA and am simply waiting for it to be confirmed officially. My pain and stiffness is in no way unbearable - and i can still get on with everyday tasks - but i do not know if this means i am less likely to have RA or if it simply means that it is simply in the early stages. Particularly because of my age I am very concerned about how this could progress, as I know many people with RA become unable to work. Any support that you could offer me would be very much appreciated, especially as I have my first university exam tomorrow and am completely unable to concentrate.

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  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,712
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
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    Hi rle, I've just said hello to you on the Young People's forum. :roll: Looks like our posts crossed.
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • frogmorton
    frogmorton Member Posts: 29,417
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
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    Hi rle

    so sorry l only just saw this.

    l wanted to welcome you on the site and recommend you start posting and reading what other people say. Information is so useful and helps you get your head round it all. Some areas A/C has support groups where you may be able to find other young people with arthritis.

    What l must say is that there really IS life afer diagnosis and a pretty good one too :) .

    I hope you did ok in your exams :?

    Love

    Toni xx
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