This is my first time to join a forum, so be patient with me please. I began experiencing pain in my back and hands several years ago. Two years ago, the pain and stiffness increased greatly and began in my feet. I was a referred to a rheumatologist at that time. He did blood work and said it was all normal and that I have hypermobile joint disorder. Also said it could possibly be early RA. My mother had been diagnosed a few years prior. I began taking an anti-inflammatory which provided a small amount of relief. Fast forward through 2 years of pointless appointments to now. My GP referred me to a new rheumatologist due to increasing pain and joint involvement. Did a complete workup and x-rays. While in office, the doctor gave me information on Plaquenil because he wanted me to research it due to thinking it would be the prescript
ion needed based on the physical exam, etc. before having lab and x-ray results. I received information in the mail yesterday from his office for methotrexate. Nothing else in the envelope. I'm guessing he didn't see what he thought he would with the labs. I'm afraid that I'm going to hear the dreaded RA diagnosis when I return for my follow-up appointment. It would be nice to have an answer as to what is causing the pain, stiffness, and swelling but I've gotten really good at denial, also.
I guess I want to know if I'm jumping to conclusions. I know methotrexate can be used for other things but RA seems to fit my symptoms pretty well.
Now that I'm not trying to work I can finish my thoughts. I have joint pain and swelling (both hands,wrists, ankles, feet, hips, and back), fatigue, rash when I have been in the sun, hair loss, & feet turn purple. Does this seem like RA or something else I haven't considered?
Hoping for answers next week at my follow up but since this journey has been several years long, I still have doubts.
Thanks to everyone for all of the great information on this site!
Post Edited (dmb124) : 9/14/2016 7:52:02 PM (GMT-6)