Newbie.arthritis support

[bel-inda]

Hello.my names Izzy.i need advise on my arthritis in my fingers as after seeing my g.p I’m still none of the wiser on what it is and why I got it and how to manage it.my g.p sent me for bloods to see if it was a My immune system disease but it came back nfa.so could anyone tell me what is causing my fingers to swell bend and look so disfigured and how I can make life better as I feel like chopping them off or just stay in for ever.feel so self conscious I can’t go out.

[katieoxo60]

Hi there, that sounds strange. Distorted joints are usually a sign of long standing arthritis, I have had swollen thumb joints with pain for over twenty years , although blood tests can be normal doesn't mean you haven't got systemic arthritis. I have raised uric acids which can cause arthritis. But other illnesses can case joint problems & swelling , so I think you should be investigated other than just ten minutes with the GP, if only to get a clear diagnosis for correct treatment. I am diagnosed as Osteo arthritis but there are numerous and not all require the same treatment they seem to concentrate mainly on the two main arthritisis i.e OA & RA. Don't let your appearance put you off going out, it is not your fault you are ill. These distortions could be crystal arthritis which can be helped with drugs. You need a specialist to assess you.Best wishes Arthritis can be managed but you need good help to do so.

[bel-inda in reply to katieoxo60]

Thankyou youv given me more advise than my go il be booking another appointment first thing

[katieoxo60 in reply to bel-inda]

You are welcome & good luck

[Nottobad]

I have distorted fingers and was told it was Osteoarthritis. After having X-rays. My fingers bend at the finger tips. I would ask to be referred to see a Rheumatology consultant to get a proper diagnosis. This link may help you. verywellhealth.com/finger-o...

[Hidden]

I agree entirely, I have both RA and OA, and of the two (probably because I've had it longest) RA makes my fingers become swollen and bend in weird positions. As Yet, the OA only affects my hips.

[bernie64]

I have RA, started in my fingers and toes, they swell up and my toes are starting to bend, understand how you feel, you can at least hide your toes in shoes!! But your hands are a different matter altogether, try to not let it keep you indoors. Are you not on any medication? Go back to your GP and asked to be referred to Rheumatology.

[PMRPete]

Arthritis in hands is well treated with hot wax baths, I leave mine on 24/7 and use immediately the pain comes on. Has worked well for several years now.

[Gabby1_]

Hi I went on you tube I think certain food causes it I have R/A fingers & toes but dont want big PHARMA poison .I saw that high fat food can cause a leaky gut causing swelling etc so I've cut them down and I'm not so bad now look it up

[Kneesandtoes]

I had tender swollen finger joints about twenty five years ago. They gradually improved and returned to normal. Later I realised that it more or less coincided with with me changing from using margarines and sunflower oil to butter and olive oil . I probably used less too as the latter ones are more expensive. Look into the omega 6 to omega 3 ratio and inflammatory food in general. I ate rather too many chips one week earlier this year and my long finger started hurting.

Know what you mean about clueless gps. I was told by one ‘lots of women of your age get this without there being anything wrong with them’.

[katieoxo60]

Hi again, I have had arthritis for many years and tried alsorts at present I am trying CBD oil in capsules early days though and it won't alter the joint distortion only the pain I hope. There are lots of things you can try once you have a correct diagnosis, including diet changes to reduce things like swelling. There are even Saunas that can be installed in a space in your home which I am informed work very well on pain control. Waxing , rubs, gloves on the hands, all work well plus daily exercise of the joints. So hang on in there I am sure you will find help if you ask. Meditation & mindfulness helps too. Best wishes