Help! Waiting diagnosis but very worried & anxious. Appointment for the 29th but seems an eternity away.

[jaylouholl]

X-rays confirmed arthritis & Rheumatoid factor in blood was over 200, I have pain in my hands, knees, hips, elbows, shoulders in fact pretty much all over. Just would like to talk with someone who as RA.

[Hidden]

I'm really sorry you been diagnosed with RA.

Not too long until you see your consultant, go armed with lots of questions, ask for the contact details of the specialist nurse. It might be worth taking someone with you as 2 heads are better than one.

Do let us know how you get on.

[jaylouholl]

Hi Pauline, thank you for your response. I have downloaded the MyRA app to record how I feel on a daily basis & so I can show the Rheumatologist.

RA not confirmed yet but my doctor is certain that is what it is.

[mikeadi]

Why not have a chat with my wife - she has had RA for a number of years.

07824 901713 or email [e-mail]

[jaylouholl in reply to mikeadi]

Thank you! I have sent an email.

[Bazzypants]

Hi jaylouholl, Try not to stress to much I am sure you will be just fine you at the beginning of the road with the RA you will soon learn all the jargon and it sounds to me that you def have it, very similar to when my story began. They will give you lots of info and if you want to know anything write it down before you go on your appointment that way you wont forget. The 29th will soon come around and your story will begin I am sure it wont be long before you yourself are helping others on here. I wish you luck keep us posted on your progress. xxxxx

[jaylouholl in reply to Bazzypants]

Could I ask what was the results of your RF in your bloods?

Also could you describe the pain etc? Sorry for sounding so morbid but I'm getting worried now.

[Bazzypants in reply to jaylouholl]

Hi again my bloods were 190 when I was diagnosed and the pains can differ depending on where I have the sometimes it may be a dull ache sometimes it nags like a throb with added stiffness not very pleasant really but with meds and painkillers I am sure you will improve, don't get me you could still have flare ups but they may not be as frequent. xx hope that helps try not to worry xxx The RA team will give you the help you need when you get to your appointment.xxx

[jaylouholl in reply to Bazzypants]

Thank you ❤️

[Hidden]

It is a very scary time when waiting for a clear diagnosis but the good news is that IF it is confirmed as RA or another form of Inflammatory arthritis there is so much more your rhuematology team can do now that wasn't available 10 years ago. Treatment and therapy has changed drastically and more and more people are reaching remission when treated swiftly and agressively in the early stages. Please do contact NRAS after the holidays as we have some excellent literature which you will find helpful to familiarise yourself with before your consultation. NRAS also have trained telephone support volunteers and can arrange for someone living with RA to give you a call at a mutually convenient time, could be evening or weekend, and you will fiind (I hope) just chatting to someone who has been there and done that so to speak, will really help. Call the NRAS helpline on 0800 298 7650 after the Easter Hols and in the meantime visit nras.org.uk/about_rheumatoi... where you will find information on what to expect in the early days/weeks/months of being diagnosed.

Hang in there and please be assured there is lots of help and support available and I am so pleased you found this Health Unlocked site.

Good Luck

Clare

[jaylouholl in reply to Hidden]

Thank you Clare, I have joined NRAS & looked at the website a few times.

[cathie]

There's a lot of experience out here on this forum. I'm really sorry to hear that you may have RA, it's not a good thing. But there are lots of medications, and information so that you can take control if things more. I've learned to keep a record of my blood test results, that's very important. And try to stay as mobile as you can as exercise does help. And were always there for reassurance and empathy

[jaylouholl in reply to cathie]

Thank you ❤️

[wiliby]

Hiya, I,ve sent you a message x

[Kimmie85]

Hi,

I can really relate to that. GP took a long time before doing anything! They had strongly suspected I have RA from my blood tests and also had pain and swelling in countless joints like my hands, knees, wrists, feet and jaw. Finding it hard to walk with my knee swelling too. I have my first consultation at the arthritis clinic at hospital tomorrow. I find I'm anxious about it all too - I'm 28 and don't know anyone who has it so feel like no one I know understands really - but great I've found a forum like this. I hope your appointment goes well. Feel free to get in touch if you want to chat/moan!

Kim xx

[Dolly84]

I'm waiting on my appointment too. But haven't had bloods or xrays. Just want the diagnosis so treatment can start. I understand how u feeling x