Hi I'm new to this forum
I was diagnosed with auto immune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's) 3 years ago and struggle to keep my levels within range.
I have now developed severe hand and hip pain/stiffness. Very swollen fingers and knuckle joints. I can't get any rings on my fingers and they look a bit like chipolatas! I have no grip and can't manage opening any jars, bottles, stupid food packaging where you have to pull a tiny flap of plastic etc. Buttons and zips are hard to do up. The pain is constant.
My hips literally seize up if I sit for more than a few minutes (feel a bit like the tin man when I try to get up and walk). Very painful to walk and I am a walker. Until recently I could walk miles with the dogs. Now I can only do short walks and then have to rest.
Finally, I have now got very red,scaly, itchy elbows! This has gradually got worse and spreading.
So after the long pre-amble could I have now developed a form of auto immune arthritis? I've read a lot of articles and this sounds like the one associated with psoriasis possibly?
I have a GP appointment on Monday (waited 11 days for an appointment) and want to know from any others if they have similar symptoms. Are there any tests I should be asking for? My doctor tends to fob me off as regards my Hashi's and I want to be able to discuss with her fully.
Thanks in advance for any advice
Jan