I've been a little quiet of late, I wanted to get my head down and try not to think about things too much. I've also been enjoying a short remission (back into the start of another flare cycle now however) so i've been busy grabbing life with both hands, whilst I was well enough to do so.
Anyway. I wanted a second opinion, and I had the Haywood Centre for Rheumatology recommended to me on here, so I asked to be referred there and finally had my referral today and saw a specialist there.
She has confirmed that I have Palindromic Rheumatism, a rare form of Inflammatory arthritis.
The relief I feel is huge. The other week at the pain clinic my other problem, which was first brushed off as Fibro, has also been diagnosed, and I also have Chronic Widespread Neuropathy (a fancy way of saying nerve damage).
Thirdly, the problems with my back, ongoing since the accident, are seen as entirely separate to both of these diseases, and it's been recommended that this is treated separately through physio.
I've been told I will start Plaquenil for the Palindromic Rheumatism (I need to arrange to see my GP for this) and after my allergic reaction to the Tapentadol for my nerve damage, I've been given BuTrans patches to try instead. I've not started these patches as yet, as I need to arrange for time off work as I am not allowed to drive on them during the start of treatment. Hopefully I will be able to arrange to work from home as i've used up all my holiday days now (several taken instead of sick days).
I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has been so kind, understanding and supportive during my 9 month journey to diagnosis. I know these meds are not a magical cure, and I know that i've still got tough times ahead as my body adapts to various med combinations and doses, but I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel now, and thank you to each and every one of you who has taken time out of their day to send comments and messages to me.