Arthritis Foundation Forum / Getting Started on the Message Boards / General Information

screen name

Barbara Awcock — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:04:08 GMT

Hi I am new to this site, and have a couple of questions.When I try to add colour and font size the message comes up error, and that I must put message in postl, which I have tried to do twice now.Also I asked in my profile to only use my screen name, but my full name is coming up, can you tell me why please?

New Arthritis/ Hip-Replacement Blog

Arley McNeney — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 01:01:48 GMT

Hi all,

Sorry if you've already received this post. I didn't know where to post it. I am a 26-year-old with avascular necrosis. Four months ago, I had a total hip replacement and the surgery didn't go quite as planned; (I'm still walking worse than I was before the surgery and can't use a lot of major muscle groups). Since I had difficulty finding information on hip replacements for young people when I was researching having my replacement, I decided to start a humorous blog called "Young And Hip" to chronicle everything from appointments with my surgeon to getting electrified needles in sensitive places as part of nerve testing to losing my balance and nearly concussing a potential suitor because of post-surgical instability. (It's aimed at young people having a hip replacement, but most of the people who read it are of all ages, and many aren't actually having a hip replacement :)).

If you're interested, the address is: youngandhip.blogspot.com

- Arley

FDA Alert: Stolen Tylenol Arthritis and PM may be Unsafe for Use

Megan Mahan — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:39:47 GMT

The U.S. FDA has issued an alert regarding the theft of Tylenol Arthritis and Tylenol PM. The FDA has identified the stolen medications as the following:

TYLENOL® Arthritis Pain Caplet 150 count bottles
UPC # 30300450838155
Code # 8381500
Lot # 09XMC1

TYLENOL® PM 2-caplet packets
UPC # 30300450482304
Code # 4823000
Lot # 09XMC110

Please take a look at your lot numbers. If your supply comes from the lots listed above, contact McNeil Consumer Healthcare at 888-222-6036, or the FDA's Office of Criminal Investigations at 800-551-3989.

You can learn more about the stolen drugs by reading the FDA's official alert: [url]http://www.fda.gov/ICECI/CriminalInvestigations/ucm186269.htm[/url]

Newcomer

Oscar Not Specified — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 14:46:28 GMT

Hi everyone

I am 42 and was diagnosed with RA over 1 yr. ago. My Dr. says we caught it early and will treated agressively. (what ever that means!) After reading the personnal stories here I feel like I have no buisness being here. But the truth is I know that it is a matter of time before Arthur decides it is time to take over my life. So here I am hoping to learn from all of you. The funny thing is that my mother has had RA since before I was born and it wasn't untill my true pain started that that I realized what she was enduring when I was growing up. I now see my mom and all of you in a much brighter light. I now trully understand the old saying "you don't know a person untill you walk a mile in their shoes"

I am currently taking Methotrexate, Folic acid, and Prednesone as needed. Since I started these meds I have been able to function normal 98% of the time. The other 2% I am able (for now) to push through the pain as long as I stay busy. I do not know how long this will last but I pray to God it is a while. My occupation is unforgiving and anything less than 100% means I loose the one thing, besides my wife and kids, that means anything to me. But for now I feel blessed and have nothing to complain about. Now that I found this site I know I have yet another tool in my RA tool bag to make it throught the rough spots.

May God blees you all and may the rest of your days be good days.

this helped me

pat bernard — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 19:58:33 GMT

I found this pharmacy online best service and prices you should try them the lady was extremely helpful. http://www.247expressmeds.com/

Welcome and General Information

Grandpavan — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 18:06:15 GMT

Most of the action on this site is on the Rheumatoid Arthritis forum and all are welcome to participate in that forum. Below is a copy of a welcoming thread on that site.

First there is a welcome and some information about the board that might be useful. This is followed by general reference information, mostly with links to where details can be obtained.

Welcome to all newbies. We try to give support and information to all so please feel free to join in and post. You can read more about many of us by clicking on our author name. You also have a Profile Page at this site that you can reach by clicking on the link at the top. You can post whatever information about yourself you want to share with us. It helps us to know you better and respond better. We welcome all new members and hope you enjoy being here. We look forward to hearing more from you.

There is also a site e-mail that does not go out to the web but is accessible from this site only. Click on your profile and you can read your e-mails. You can send e-mails by clicking on the author's name for any post and going to their profile. If you want to keep a copy of the e-mails you send, it is best to copy them to your word processing program before sending them.

Each forum contains "threads" that consist of an initial post and any replies that are added by clicking "reply". A new thread is started by going to the view that shows all threads and clicking "new thread" at the top of that page. If you are changing a subject it is best to start a new thread.

Another feature is that we sometimes talk about sharing spoons. That is based on a story to explain the trouble with a chronic illness.

Spoon Theory
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/spoons.htm

General information about RA
http://www.arc.org.uk/about_arth/booklets/6033/6033.htm

First Visit to Rheumatologist
http://arthritis.about.com/cs/docpad/a/rheumatologist.htm

RA Diagnostic Criteria (Any 4 qualify for positive diagnosis)
1. Morning stiffness, lasting for at least an hour, present daily for at least 6 weeks
2. Arthritis of 3 or more joints, lasting for at least 6 weeks
3. Arthritis of the hand joints, lasting for at least 6 weeks
4. Symmetric arthritis, lasting for at least 6 weeks
5. Rheumatoid nodules
6. Positive rheumatoid factor (blood test)
7. Joint changes on x-ray

Drugs and interactions
http://www.arthritis.org/conditions/DrugGuide/index.asp
http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/Home
http://www.drugs.com/
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DrugHerbIndex

Lab Tests
http://arthritiscentral.com/html/testslab.htm
http://www.labtestsonline.org

Financial assistance
https://www.pparx.org/Intro.php
https://www.helpingpatients.org/Intro.php
http://www.needymeds.com
http://www.themedicineprogram.com
Http://www.rxassist.org
http://www.medicationfoundation.com/
http://www.nami.org/Content/ContentGroups/Helpline1/Prescription_ Drug_Patient_Assistance_Programs.htm
http://www.qdrug.com/sf/
http://www.freemedicineprogram.com
http://www.rheumatology.org/public/acrast.asp?aud=pat
http://www.joniandfriends.org/helps/financia.shtml

Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI and SSI programs)
http://www.ssa.gov/d&s1.htm

RA treatments
http://www.hopkins-arthritis.som.jhmi.edu/rheumatoid/rheum_treat.html

Complementary and Alternative Medicine
http://nccam.nih.gov/health/RA/

Food Intolerance, Elimination Diet
http://www.foodintol.com/food_intolerance/food_intolerance.htm http://www.drcranton.com/elimination_diet.htm

Antibiotic Therapy - Road Back Foundation
http://www.roadback.org

Aggressive Treatment
http://rheumatology.hss.edu/phys/musings/pagetStandardsRA.asp

Emotional Coping with RA
http://www.hss.edu/Conditions/Rheumatoid-Arthritis/Emotional-Impact-Of-Rheumatic-Disease

Fatigue in RA
http://www.hss.edu/Conditions/Rheumatoid-Arthritis/Fatigue-In-Rheumatoid-Arthritis

Assistive Devices
http://www.webmd.com/content/pages/25/113258.htm?z=1834_00000_2244_HZ_06
www.beabletodo.com

Stress (Good, but technical)
http://rheumatology.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/38/11/1050

First rheumy appt, how to prepare
Message compiled by JeriBeriNanaBana Posted : 12/7/2006 7:59 PM

From arthritis.about.com:
First Visit To The Rheumatologist

A rheumatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in arthritis and related diseases. Most often, a patient is referred to a rheumatologist by their primary care physician after presenting symptoms of arthritis. When preparing for the first appointment with the rheumatologist, there are primarily three things for the patient to consider:

*What should the patient take to the first appointment?
*What can the patient expect?
*What questions should the patient be prepared to ask?

What should you take?

Take your insurance cards and a photo I.D. so that the office personnel can begin to build a medical file. Be prepared to fill out a medical history. Bring along information about medications you take including the name of the drug, dosage, and schedule. Know the dates of pertinent visits to other doctors related to your current situation (i.e. orthopedic surgeons, internal medicine doctors). Be able to describe your current symptoms and the date of onset. If you have prior x-rays which are related, acquire the x-rays and/or reports so the information can be included. Present information about past surgeries (procedures, dates, and name of surgeons).

What can you expect?

You will be taken to an examining room by a nurse. The nurse will take your vital signs and ask you to briefly explain your symptoms and why you have been referred to the rheumatologist. After making a few notes, the nurse will tell the rheumatologist you are ready for the consultation/ examination. The rheumatologist will again ask you to explain your symptoms, in more detail, while examining you. Based on your answers and the findings during the examination, the rheumatologist will order more diagnostic tests.

According to The Collaborative Arthritis Research & Education Services Program, expect the rheumatologist to ask:

*Where and when does it hurt?
*When did you begin to feel the pain?
*Is the pain dull or sharp?
*How long does the pain typically last?
*Do you have swelling or redness of any joints?
*Do your symptoms affect your ability to perform any daily tasks?
*Have you injured the affected joint(s), been in an accident, or recently overused the joint(s)?
*Do any family members have the same or similar problem?
*During the physical exam, the rheumatologist will look for visible evidence of swelling, redness, inflammation, tenderness, rash, nodules, or deformity. The range-of-motion of your joints will also be assessed.

The combination of your medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic test results will help the rheumatologist decide whether or not you have arthritis and what type of arthritis you have. There are over 100 types of arthritis.

What questions should you ask?

Following the examination and interview by the rheumatologist, you will have the opportunity to ask questions. Have your questions pre-planned as much as possible and written down so you will be less likely to forget. Preparedness will afford you the best chance of leaving your initial visit with the rheumatologist armed with a plan. Consider asking your rheumatologist the following questions:

*Do I have arthritis? What type of arthritis do you suspect?
*What treatment will be tried initially?
*What is the action of each medication prescribed? (i.e. Is it a painkiller? Is it an anti-inflammatory drug?)
*When should I expect to notice an improvement?
*If this treatment plan does not work, what would be my next option?
*How will you monitor my progress or the possibility of adverse effects? *Will I require routine blood tests?
*What other avenues should I consider for better management of my arthritis? Regular exercise? Physical therapy? Occupational therapy? Weight management?

Early diagnosis and proper management of arthritis is imperative. A good relationship with your rheumatologist is an integral part of the process. A successful initial consultation can set you in a positive direction.

Message from Susan on Whidbey: Posted : 9/4/2006 12:21 PM
I'm writing because it seems appropriate, with so many joining our ranks, to talk about the emotional upheaval you're now experiencing.

You should know that most of us have gone through the process. First you're just peeking at the posts because you KNOW you probably don't have RA, but there's that nagging fear.
Then, as more symptoms seem to fall into place, you decide to find out for sure because you know SOMETHING is wrong.

Then there is, for many, an interminable wait as symptoms get worse but the blood tests seem normal. And NO you're not a hypochondriac. Take that one off your list right now.

Then, though it may take a second opinion or three or four, you have the diagnosis. You'll feel a smidgeon of relief, but now you've opened up a whole new can of worms.

And right here, when you're really feeling awful because none of the medications kick in for an eternity, you need to look carefully at the rheumatologist and decide whether this is the person with whom you want to be sharing the battle against the rheumatoid monster. This is your first really important decision. You'll read here of the frustration and disappointment that comes of a poor match between patient and doctor. Making the most of your health depends on being able to stay upbeat- and that ain't happening with the wrong combination, no matter how diplomaed he/she is.

But all the while, you'll be going through the classic stages of grief. The sooner you work through denial, anger, guilt, the better. Bottling that stuff up 'for the sake of the family' only holds you back. Go off by yourself, if you must, to scream and cry. Or come here to vent. But get that bad stuff out so you can devote your energy to taking up every sword you can find again the RA monster.

Please know that you are NOT alone. Chances are there is someone here who has already experienced the strangest symptom you can think of. It would be SO much easier if there were a predictable pathway of symptoms and outcomes.

There's not. You'll have to do battle as your body dictates. In that sense, it's a lonely struggle. But this community is united in sharing support, and from that you will gain the strength to keep taming the beast within.

Information about RA? There's loads of it here. Hints, tricks, and inside jokes to boot. But underneath all that is sharing a lifeline with all who join us. Please do and help make us stronger by your participation. Susan-on-Whidbey

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease with RA....Anyone?

Kadi223 — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 11:57:02 GMT

Hello,

I'm new to these posts, I'm looking for other people who have RA with the additional diagnosis of MCTD. I've had RA for 14 years, and MCTD for going on 6 years.

I did really well on Enbrel with just the RA but when hit with the MCTD wow, did I go downhill fast!! I actually had to stop working in 2007..I couldn't even stand up or walk. I'm much better since not working, but now I'm bored and somewhat depressed at times. I'm single, no children and never married. Don't have much family, and those I do have, are not around at all.

It's extremely tough being in this situation and I was wondering if there are other single's handling all of this on their own. I try and keep a positive attitude and my sense of humor sees me thru a lot! My Dr.'s always tell me I handle it well, but how else are you going to handle it!!

I've always been an independent and strong person, and I need that now more than ever. I can't stand people who sit around and cry and complain, and half of them have husbands and kids to help them...they would no doubt crumble if going it alone.

Ok, enough venting..lol.

Thanks,
Karen :)

Has anyone experienced rash on lower legs and feet with MCTD?

joy lathem — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 12:41:56 GMT

I have been dx with MCTD, Raynauds, Fibromyagia..... you know the drill.... I have run the usual gammet of drugs....plaquenil, prednisone, MTX, imuran, now cellcept...

Recently, I have experienced a strange rash around my ankles and bottom of my foot then also half way around my inner lower leg. The first time it appeared it was about one inch wide, this time it is approx 3 inches on one side but still 1 on the other. The rash is not itchy, is not painful but very red. Both instances were after spending a full 8 hours on my feet. I can't find anything that resembles the look of it online.

oa .....what the heck

paisley — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 18:53:21 GMT

Well i'm new here,thought i'd better talk to someone because i'm having a hard time understanding what oa really means to me.I was diagnosed 1 yr ago .I developed incredible pain in my lower spine and hips.The doctor told me to lose weight and exercise.I was taking oxycocet and celebrex.So I lost 25lbs and started swimming.The pain went away and I got off the drugs and was feeling good then my shoulder happened.The doctor told me I was having a arthritic flare up because I overdid it and agrivated bone spurs on my shoulder.I felt defeated as he passed me a perscription of celebrex.I worked hard at getting better and now I feel i'm back to square one.Is this what a typical day is gonna look like? Can I expect more of the same . I guess I really want to know what is life gonna be like and where do I go from here.

New to OA!

frederick Male — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 20:23:04 GMT

Hi!

This is my first forum ever. I am a 51 male with excellent health. Four months ago I started having small/sorish pains in one finger joint. From there, it has escalated to most of my fingers. Very painful and swollen. My life has taken a 180 degree turn. From not being able to tight my shoes. I started a week ago with a Reuma. Dr. She is very understanding and has me on Celebrex.

At first, a hand surgeon had put me on naproxen, but it did not do much at all. Celebrex helping just a little. Dr. wants to wait a week to see how I proceed with Celebrex. If not well, she may put some shoots in the sore joints. Also taking Glucosa/choron.... as a supplement.

At night doing hot pads to help with the inflamation.

I have fallen in the typical tired/drepressed/anxios cycle. Will start a Gym club tomorrow.

Does anybody know any Support group(s) in the Miami area? Talking to family is very hard and there is not much understanding. Only the person, who has this, knows how debilitating it can be.

May God bless you all.

Frederick

New to boards and recently diagnosed with OA

Ella Silver — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 15:39:57 GMT

Hello, I hope I'm posting in the right place.

I was just diagnosed with osteoarthritis the other day. I don't take painkillers as a rule and I am going to start physical therapy asap. I have literally gotten the results of Xrays back and nothing else. I don't even understand the condition yet.

It's all very new to me but it started with months of crippling pain in my neck, right shoulder, arm (elbow big time) and hand. I recently had a series of xrays done and this is the current diagnosis.

The unique thing about my case is that I'm in my late 20s and already this pain (which is not chronic, but comes in acute spells for about a month at a time) is extremely severe and disabling. I want to get back on my feet while I wait for my referral to a physiotherapist (which is the treatment route I'm most comfortable with because i'm very sporty) I also work in IT which means I'm at a computer all day. For the past two and a half weeks, I've been unable to work or even sit for any length of time.

Are there any simple, safe exercises that I can do in the meantime that might help me relieve my pain and regain some mobility?

I also would like to hear from people with similar experiences.. Does the pain get worse over time? Is there any way to heal it? If not, is it manageable? Am I facing a long crippled future? As I mentioned before I'm very active and the thought of many years ahead without that is horribly depressing.

These are all questions I can ask my doctor but, as I say, I was only recently diagnosed and haven't seen the physiotherapist yet. I want to be proactive and start feeling better as soon as humanly possible. Now that i have a name for my pain, I want to start fighting it.

Does anyone have any suggestions?

I'm sorry if this is in the wrong forum. I'm new here :)

Thank you

Ella

antibiotics for RA?

linncn — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 11:51:13 GMT

Hi. I am new to this board but was dx'd with RA almost one year ago. I currently take 50 mg Enbrel and 25 mg MTX. I was doing very well with this treatment for several months, but have recently been flaring every few weeks. My RD has put a possible switch to Humira or just adding Arava on the table, but I don't really want to do either of these. Am considering AP and am wondering if anyone has had success with this treatment.

RA Meds and (+) tuburculin Test

Mary Maritch — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 17:45:30 GMT

I was recently diagnosed with RA...I started Placquenil, Relafen and Prednisone about 4 wks ago. However, my PPD test has been positive for many years and I understand there is a problem starting the more aggresive drugs Remicade, Enbrel, etc. Has anyone been in this position? I'm scared of all these meds......any info will be appreciated. Thanks

new to this site need advice please

sue morris — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 09:24:53 GMT

Hi everyone I'm new to this site & need some advice please I have OA in different parts of my body eg : spine, neck, hips also OP in left hip I have seen my rheumy & due to the pain I'm in he has sent me for a body scan I have had xrays which confirmed OA, a bone density scan which I was advised to have due to my mother falling in hospital breaking her hip which killed her we did not know she had OP, I now know I have OP in the same hip has my mom

My question is this scan I have just had I don't know much about it was done in the nuclear medicine department which entailed first having an injection in my vein then returning 3 hours later for the scan it was called a gamma camera never heard of this can anyone help I would be great full for any advice

take care sue

GOVERNMENT AND NON PROFIT PROGRAMS TO HELP DISABLED AND SENIORS

Michael Marki — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:36:30 GMT

Free US government benefits and those from non profit organizations that are not well known available to help disabled, seniors, uninsured and low income. Free insurance, free prescriptions, free food, free dental, free transportation and more.

www.maxpages.com/helpbenefits :)

University of Alberta Arthritis Study

Kailyn Jones — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:51:21 GMT

Hello,  
Researchers at the University of Alberta, Augustana Campus, are studying how people with Arthritis manage employment, access healthcare and if they have ever experienced stigma, such as perceived prejudice or discrimination.

If you have any form of Arthritis, we would like to invite you to participate in this online survey.   The survey is short, and takes about 15-30 minutes to complete, depending on how much you choose to write. We have tried to make the content of the survey as meaningful as possible. I hope that by completing this survey you will learn something about yourself too.   The survey can be completed online at: https://webapp.augustana.ca/adaptation

 You help and input is valued! Thank you.

long term disability and ssi

Kelly3 — Wed, 20 May 2009 10:51:15 GMT

I am so sure this has been a topic for many. My diagnosis is inflammatory arthritis/myostasis,myalga/chronic fatigue syndrome..I am currently working (barely) I am on intermitten FMLA. I had my third shot of Humira and I go in Tuesday to let her know its not working. I went to my daughters college graduation on monday and could barely get up the stairs. My back/knees/hands/wrists and feet hurt me so bad im totally exhausted. I tt my RA about going out on long term disability if the humira did nt work (i am missing 4-5 days a month now) I did opt up to 60 % and I have been here 2 years in july. She said it will be a fight, for ssi, she said she thinks they also fight on long term disability. I have Lincoln something. Does anyone know how to go about this/what are my chances/ and how hard is this...i am so worried about losing my income and my medical ??? i have bee on fmla for a year in july...

Women needed for Online Survey about Arthritis and Physical Activity

Karen Glazebrook — Tue, 26 May 2009 19:05:52 GMT

Hello,

I am a research coordinator in the College of Kinesiology at the University of
Saskatchewan. I am working for Dr. Nancy Gyurcsik, who was given a multi-study
research grant by the federal granting agency the Social Sciences and Humanities
Research Council of Canada (SSHRC). The purpose of the grant is to study what
may or may not keep women with arthritis from doing physical activity.

We are currently recruiting North American women, at least 21 years of age,
who have been told by their doctor that they have any type of arthritis.

To participate in this study, these women only need to fill out 2 short online
surveys, which can be done from any computer. The first survey takes about 25
minutes, and the second is a 5-minute follow-up survey 2 weeks later.

All participants and their answers will be anonymous. (The University of
Saskatchewan Research Ethics Board has approved this study: Beh # 05-230.)

Women can do the survey online by typing in, or copying and pasting, the
following web address:

https://survey.usask.ca/survey.php?sid=14109

We would greatly appreciate your time and help with this important research!
Please feel free to share this link with friends or relatives who are affected by any form of arthritis.
The more participants we can get for this study the better our information will be.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me (arthritis.study@usask.ca)
or contact the lead researcher, Dr. Nancy Gyurcsik, by telephone (1-306-966-1075)
or email (nancy.gyurcsik@usask.ca).

Thank you very much!

Karen Glazebrook, M.Sc.
Research Coordinator
College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan
arthritis.study@usask.ca

Votes needed. Please help!

Scott Meier — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 17:07:26 GMT

Hello Everyone. I posted under the RA forum a few days ago, but thought I would post here as well. I need your votes! If you get a chance, please vote for and leave a review for my "Believe In The Run" video entry at:

[url=http://www.brickfish.com/Pages/VideosSeries/VideoView.aspx?vid=8804_27780747&pid=2201818&scid=418&]http://www.brickfish.com/Pages/VideosSeries/VideoView.aspx?vid=8804_27780747&pid=2201818&scid=418&[/url]

I was diagnosed with RA in 2001. Once I switched to Enbrel a few years ago, I truly feel like I got my life back. I now feel like there isn't anything that I can't do. Thanks for your votes and help.

It's a Party

Yadira Morales — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:57:09 GMT

Hello Everyone!

My name is Yadira and I am the team captain of "ShyNia's Striderz" as well as the Dog Walk Chair for Tampa. I would like to invite you all if you are in the area to come and participte in our Team Party! You can also visit our team page at:

http://2009AWTampa.kintera.org/shyniasstriderz

Date of Event: 7th of March, 2009

Location: 3318 Russet Drive Tampa, Florida 33618

Time: 3p - 7pm

RSVP BY: February 28, 2009

I can be reached at 813-968-7000 or 800-850-9455 or by email: yadiramorales@arthritis.org

We are trying our best to raise funds for the research and the awareness of arthritis. There will be plenty of food, games, raffles, movies, a bounce house, and a silent auction.

Some come out and have FUN FUN FUN FUN!!!!!!!

Our walk is scheduled for May 2nd at Al Lopez Park in Tampa Florida

Understanding bloodwork...

Kimberly11 — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 12:59:11 GMT

I just came back from the dr with my blood results. I don't understand what they mean, can anyone help?
It said that my Sed Rate is 28, my ANA SCREEN is possitive, ANA PATTERN is SSA/RO, ANTINUCLEAR ANTIBODIES 1:1280 titer. Oh, and my RHEUMATOID FACTOR IS 31.
Can anyone help?
Thanks in advance-
~Kimberly
P.S. Man I am in A LOT of pain!

New to forum!!!!

Leiana Gorde — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 20:28:56 GMT

:unsure: i am brand new to this forum and have been lurking for couple months. i have not been diagnosed with RA but 99% sure i have it. Been told i have degenerative arthritis and osteo. also been told i have plantar facisia(spell). my feet and toes curl up with horrific pain. dr. gave me Lyrica and have not taken that either!! i read all the posts last night until 5 in the morning. all these meds are scary and afraid to take any now. cannot take ibuprofen and the like. affects my stomach and my intestines bleed. i have had two RN nurses told me it sounds like RA. i need to go to a dr, but i am so scared i start hyperventilating and heart beats like a jack hammer. i am so stiff i feel like a board and cannot bend. i want one day without hurting. please someone tell me what to do. my regular dr. wants me to have blood test to determine if i have it and scared to do that. what is my next step? :crying: :crying: is there something i can take that will not hurt my stomach and cause bleeding? please help. i am 57 and none here to help me.

shoulder OA

chris0 — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 22:56:06 GMT

I have arthritis of the shoulder. All I read and hear about is the joint pain, but honestly the worst pain is in my arm, the aching. Is this normal.

New here, no diagnosis yet

April V — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 10:07:48 GMT

(This is a long story, and only the beginning)

So, ever since I was a kid, I've had fatigue and muscle pain, and joint pain. I remember when I was a kid, my dad would make us kneel down on the hard floors at bedtime for prayer, and the whole time I could just hear my joints creaking. Of course no one ever listened to me when I was in pain (Oh it's just growing pains...) so I learned to just deal with it the best I could. It's always been worse in the winter, and the last few years it's been getting progressively worse. I have random muscle spasms, muscle twitches, muscle pain and weakness, general weakness and fatigue, and the joint pain. All over--shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, back, hips, knees, ankles, neck, etc.

This past summer, I started having the stiffness every morning. It worked itself out by mid morning. Well fast forward to earlier this month when it started getting colder. I slept without a blanket one night (not by choice, I'm always cold but I had accidentally packed our blanket for the move because I didn't think it'd be that cold yet.) and woke up in the worst pain ever. My hips and knees hurt so bad I could hardly walk for two days.

My primary doctor never listens or tries to investigate my symptoms. Take some ibuprofen is his answer to everything, even migraines. So I didn't go to him, but recently my company opened a clinic where I work, and they are great. So I went to them and they did many blood tests. RA factor is negative, everything is normal including CRP, sed rate, ana. So they are referring me to a rheumatologist, which apparently can take a few months around here.

So here's where I'm at. I'm stiff in the morning, but that works out fairly soon, and I have maybe 30 minutes to an hour before I start hurting again and it gets worse and worse and worse through the day. I can't sit or stand very long before something hurts. Cold makes it worse. I'm taking meloxicam once a day, tramadol as needed (neither really help) and tylenol as needed. I've always felt colder than everyone else (I dont' know if that's relevant). I have the random muscle pain, spasms, twitches and weakness. Fatigue. pain. Did I mention the pain yet? I don't know what else would be relevant--sometimes my fingers/toes go numb? I have a lot of headaches? My joints "pop" whenever I move them after not moving for a few minutes? Oh, I'll be 29 on Saturday.

I feel like I'm rambling. I know I'm just starting out with this.

RA/Fibro/Neuropathy

Mom and Son — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 12:34:48 GMT

Hello All, I'm new here on the website. Active at our local chapter, but more so with my son's pauci JA. Typical of a mom to take care of the child and ignore their own, huh? I've read a lot and talked to alot of people but am at a loss. My Rheumi diagnosed me RA and Fibro but won't try anything to get rid of the pain in my feet. It has all the symptoms of fibro: burning inside but cold to touch, throbbing, tinglely like pins and needles, and sensitive to touch so much so that lotioning and blankets hurt. I'm on two DMARD's and Ibu but scared to ask to start a biologic cause I feel like he's just brushing me off with a neuropathy diagnosis. I've been told to try another Dr. but the only other one in our insurance plan works directly with my present Dr. Any ideas???

Lots of symptoms, lots of meds, no diagnosis

Tami3 — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 15:42:21 GMT

Hello to all. I'm new here. I have no diagnosis of any overall systemic illness, but boy! Do I have a full load of symptoms! I'm 48 years old. At 24 years, I started with Ulcerative Colitis. Adding as I get older; osteoarthritis in my back, neck, feet, ankles and wrists. Add again inflammation in ALL of my connective tissue (tendons/ligaments). NOW add retinal vasculitis,vitritis and inflammation induced cateracts. Drs have NO idea what I have, other than it's systemic and auto immune. I test NEGATIVE for RA and HLA-R27 gene. Go figure. They tried cortisteroid injections INTO my eyes, didn't help and caused glocoma. Now in Methotrexate, not working. Want to start me on Remicade and I also need cateract surgery. Waiting for insurance to start in September before I can start Remicade and eye surgery. So, believe it or not, I have NO diagnosis on ANY systemic/auto immune illness! Anyone share these symptoms with me???
Tami

subject topic required

Genevive Moria — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 05:09:29 GMT

required message-- edit post

New

Cray0 — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 13:47:13 GMT

Hi everyone,
I am a 52 year old female and in February 2006 I woke up one morning and could not walk. I went to the emergency room and they told me that my left knee was sprained. They gave me a brace and sent me home and for the next year my life was consumed by doing everything I could to heal my knee and nothing seemed to work. I kept asking my general practioner if it should be taking this long and all she would say is that these things take time be patient. Last December my other knee went out too and that is when I finally found out that i have osteoarthritis in my knees. It has been a difficult time since then and the pain is getting a bit better as long as I continue with my physical therapy exercises and I work out in the gym three times a week. But as soon as it rains or is about to rain I am in agony. I am not getting much help at all from my general pracitioner or specialist. the specialist seems to be much too busy to really address my concerns. The last time i went to see him i had to wait for an hour, his assistant talked to me and then the dr. showed up for about 3 minutes. i asked him several questions and never got much of an answer, when I asked if Celebrex would help me all I got was a shrug and he said something about it being too late for that. I am very new at this and not even sure what questions to ask and I am hoping someone here with more experience than I can give me some insight. I live in San Francisco and if you know of anything that would be helpful to me it would be greatly appreciated.

CHRONIC ILLNESS

Sylvie0 — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 14:02:17 GMT

I am almost 13 years old and have been diagnosed with non-specific polyarthritis. I would like to ask other teens some questions for a research project I am doing. It is anonymous.
- How long have you been sick?
- How has having a chronic illness affected your social life?
- Did you tell your friends? If not, why not?
- If you did tell, do your friends treat you differently?
- Most frustrating part of being sick?
- Has it changed your family life?
- Have you ever been depressed or stressed about it?
- How do you deal with good and bad days?
- Has it changed you as a person?
- Anything else you might like to add?
while this is part of my science project it will also help me understand what I am going through and relate to other teens. This was the main reason I chose this as my research project. Please respond to as many questions you can with short answers. I really appreciate it. Thank you

Seronegative Arthritis???

Kaylene3 — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 07:53:28 GMT

For the last couple of years I have been told that I had Fibro. Now I'm finding out that they are reconsidering and that I may have Seronegative Arthritis?? Anyone know about this, I haven't found too much on this type of arthritis.... Thanks

Dead Tired all day - diagnosed with AS

SnowWhite — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 17:39:52 GMT

Hello,

I'm new to this site and I've been diagnosed with AS type of arthritis from past 4 years. But I just used to suffer from chronic lower back pain occasionally and I never realized I've arthritis until few months ago. Lately, I've been experiencing severe flares and constant pain/stiffness/burning in SI joints and around. Also, I'm dead tired in whole body and with very low energy levels. I can't even sleep in nights anymore with or without pain. I take sleeping pills that cause drousiness next day and I feel like zombie at work. I'm only 30 and it's very frustrating to see how my life is affecting. I'm not even functional at work because I'm always dead tired and sleepless. I also feel pain in chest bones sometimes and big toe bone of one or both feet. I'm on celebrex twice a day. I also take tylenol during the day to help relieve the pain. Sitting whole day at work also make it worst. Any suggestions how to improve my condition and how to improve my sleep problem. Are all these symtoms related to AS? My doctor suggested me to start taking Enbrel, but I'm too scared to take this madication due to side effects. Any suggestions / past experience might be helpful.

New and puzzled.

JenniferNJ30 — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 21:11:24 GMT

Hi to all. I'm Jennifer, a single 30 year old female who has both Degenerative Disk Disease all throughout my back, as well as Degenerative Joint Disease all throughout my body. Add Fibromialgia to that list as well.

I have been told by my Rheumatologist at the age of 24 that every single disk in my back is degenerating. My ligaments all throughout my body are loose. I have hypermobility as well. Supposedly all caused by a collagen definiciency.

I am slowing starting to seek answers. They say I have an inherited connective tissue disease, but which one they do not know. I saw a leading specialist at the University of Pennsylvania, and he couldn't provide me with any answers.

Now at the age of 30, I am doing warm water physical therapy to strengthen and maintain my joints. I am also trying to lose weight. I am puzzled because I want to know what I have, I want answers, but no one seems to know.

Is there anyone out there with something similar? I would love to connect and talk with young people who might have similar symptoms.

Disbelief

ltllee1 — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 10:24:21 GMT

Has anyone ever had when you go to your Dr, and you tell him how you hurt, and no energy, etc. and he tells you your depressed, and depression will make the pain seem more intense, which you agree, but after taking antidepressants the pain is still real.

Chondromalacia Patellae

Lisa73 — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:29:56 GMT

Hi All

I am new to the message boards.

I'm a 34 year old female and my orthopedist tells me that I have the above stated condition which is the result of a knee injury that never healed properly.

I was sent for two months of physical therapy which helped quite a bit and was given excerises to continue with on my own to keep my quadracep muscles strong.

However, I would like to do some other excercises to stay trim. I try to walk as much as I can, but would greatly appreciate suggestions of other excercises I can do that won't be hard on my joints.

Thank You

Hello, I need information

Rhonda2018 — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 14:35:55 GMT

Hello My name is Rhonda and I was just dignosed with Post Reactive Strep Arthritis. Though I have not had Step in Years.. My body had in excess of 200 strep antigens causeing my pain. I was told that is a chronic condition and I have to take several meds a day just to function at a fraction of what i use to. I am 27 yrs old a wife and mother of 3. My need for information is great. My condition seems to be worseing day by day. Medicans will help for a period of about a month. with my condition I also have seaver lower back pain due to calcifacation of my tailbone my left hip and slight scoliosis of my tail bone. I need help
and guidence. Thank you.

Humira - who's tried it?

Teresa from CA — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 15:18:04 GMT

Hello everyone...

I was just told that my RA is "like a train on its rails and its gaining speed fast!" - no lie, those words came out of my rheumy's mouth! So our next move is Humira.... he swears by it, but i've read scary stuff about it, but also heard it works wonders.... anyone try it??? did it/is it working???? Plz Help!!

Doctor in Richmond for Ehler's-danlos??

carolshifflette — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 23:34:29 GMT

Does anyone know of a physician who speacializes in Ehlers-Danlos in the Richmond, VA area? Also, does anyone with ED have any luck with the chronic severe joint pain with any medication regime?

Wasn't told what type of arthritis I have!

Lisa37891 — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 20:50:27 GMT

Hello everyone, I am 34yrs old and was just told I have arthritis in my back, guess that means my spine I think? I am so confused right now, I dont know what type I have and was only told to take ibuprofen, but somedays I am in so much pain I want to cry! I just wanted to know if anyone knows what I should do or what type of arthritis it is! My doctor did not tell me much. Thank You

Alone and Helpless??

DanaE 37 — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 20:36:49 GMT

Hi.

I feel alone and could use a friend to help through some of this. Being 37 years old and having 4 kids, 15, 11, 5 and 3; I have isolated myself as much as possible. I've had RA since I was 21yrs old. I was diagnosed right after having my oldest child.

My husband is great in the respect he tries to understand and be comforting, but he is a man and it only goes so far.

My children are wonderful helpers as far as children go. Sometimes, I feel that I put too many chores on them but then I watch how they are growing up to be responsible teenagers, it amazes me.

I have canceled going off with friends and other social engagements because of "bad days". Which in turn has caused me to fall apart with friends.

I'm a miltary wife and that causes problems as far as my husband, who doesn't mind helping me when he's not leaving for his job, is very unsupportive when he's leaving. He acts as though I'm too helpless to do anything. The one thing I do know is that me and the children always make it through. I just can't bear being such a burden to him. I love him. This RA causes riffs between married couples.

That doesn't help the being alone feeling. Even though I know he loves me it's hard to keep that smile and just deal with the pain so he doesn't fuss about me being helpless.

I think the worst part is I feel helpless sometimes. It just hurts to walk or sit or move or not move. I'm on Orencia now and it's not working so I don't know what's next... a wheelchair I guess.

Has anyone got any ideas on how to deal with this. There aren't any support groups and in all of my physician's offices it's like I'm sitting with my grandparents.

DanaE 37

Lupus...

Rachel15 — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 23:39:33 GMT

Alright... I'm young, only 18 and already I am having all of these arthritis problems. Rhumetoid arthritis runs in my family as does lupus, but I didn't know any of this until about a week ago. About two months ago my left knee swelled up pretty bad. I went and saw an orthopedist who did an x-ray, an mri, blood work, and then more blood work. I also don't have any insurance through all of this. He said everything came back fine and changed medications and dosages about 4 times. Finally he called me back and said one of the tests came back positive and was an ANA test. Now, I had really never heard of any of this until that point in time. He told me that with all of the other symptoms I have (a discoid rash on my hands, photosensitivity since I was 12, sudden hair loss in the last year, and having Raynaud's phenomenon) that he thought I have Lupus. He's referred me to a rheumatologist and I have an appointment for July 6th, but I really don't want to wait that long. He has me on prednisone right now, which is actually helping with the swelling a bit, but I met a woman today at my work who actually had Lupus and has had it for years and it freaked me out a bit. She is really sensitive to the light and can't really go out at all and has to wear special clothes and takes a lot of medications. This is actually pretty scary to me since it seems like my whole world has suddenly turned upside down. I am aware that I may not have Lupus, but I am kinda terrified at the prospect of potentially having it. My doctor has been wonderful to me and has charged me very little, if anything for all of these visits, but if I do have Lupus then this is going to get really expensive really quickly and I'm not really sure what to do...