Like I said, I'm new to this. I've surfed the net, read the symptoms and I can't seem to find the answer to this question. Sorry for such a dumb question.
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=20192
I don't think this is a silly question. My arthritis does not really show on the outside so much, especially in my hands. They look perfectly normal except for my knuckles being a tiny bit puffy. Not enough for anyone else to notice but me. But the pain in my hands if they are squeezed is horrible. Also simple acts like holding a paperback book in the same position or putting up a plate in the cabinet or trying to chop vegetables, even if the knife is good and sharp, all of these things create more pain in what is already a painful joint. Mostly my joints just feel like they are burning on the inside but, when pressure is applied to them it creates a sharp intense pain. Even my hip joints cannot tolorate being pushed on. I hope this helps to answer your question. Cindy this disease is confusing and frustrating on top of being painful. The more you know the more you can prepare yourself. Please don't hesitate to ask. Everyone here is very friendly and helpful.
God Bless you and keep you,
Bette
Current DX: Inflammatory Ostearthritis (apparently this is not an oxymoron), IBS, Fibro.Current Meds & what they are for: Plaquinil (arthritis)Triamterene/Hctz (decrease water retention), Dicyclomine (IBS), Ropinirole (Restless Leg), Lexipro (AntiDepressant), Allopurinol (Uric Acid Reducer), Lortab (Pain), Flexiril (Muscle spasms), Savella (Fibromyalgia), Omeprazole DR (decrease stomach acid), Naproxen Sodium (Anti-inflammatory), Omega 3 Fish Oil (anti-inflammatory), Super B-Complex, Concentrated Black Cherry (Uric Acid Reducer).