Not sure.

[Cariadrose]

Hi everyone,

I'm currently awaiting a bone scan and blood results to see if I have RA and/or Fibro. I have been experiencing muscle pain and fatigue for over 3 years and for the last 7/8 months joint pain and swelling. My ankles, feet and hands are most affected, I've also had a few lumps or nodules come up on my fingers with extreme pain in the joint of the affected finger.

I'm in my 2nd year of my degree and finding it really difficult to cope because of the extreme fatigue. I've found it really helpful reading all your posts and just wonder if anyone has any useful tips on how to cope with being exhausted all the time.

[Matilda7]

I've found acupuncture and changing my diet have helped to some extent, but still need to pace myself. It must be really difficult for you at such a demanding time. Hope you find something that works for you soon!

[Cariadrose in reply to Matilda7]

Thank you, I've been taking steps to change my diet but hadn't thought of acupuncture.

Thanks for the reply.

[Matilda7 in reply to Cariadrose]

I was diagnosed at 29y and managed pretty well using NSAIDs, complementary therapies, yoga, Pilates and diet for many years. Unfortunately have now needed to go onto Humira, but am still keeping as fit and active as possible.

Are you able to swim? A gentle way to keep joints mobile. Our bodies need as much help as possible to support our immune systems and reeducate them!

[Cariadrose in reply to Matilda7]

When I fist started having symptoms years ago I did the exact same thing bar the swimming because I can't swim 😂

I did yoga, pirates and had massages, it all helped but now my symptoms are much worse. I've been prescribed Amitryptiline but I feel I need something else.

Hopefully when I see the consultant in about 6 weeks we'll have some answers.

[Coastwalker]

Hi Cariadrose,

Muscle pain, fatigue and fibro are all symptoms of both Low Thyroid (Hypothyroidism)

and B12 Deficiency or you can have both B12Deficiency and Low Thyroid together.

Also if you have either or both Hypothyroidism/B12Deficiency, you might also be low in iron, feritin (stored iron) folate, vitamin D all these can cause problems too.

(Suggestion only) - Ask for a printout of any bloods you have done and their ranges as many of us do daily on 'Thyroid Uk' and pop your results up on 'Thyroid Uk' (here on Health Unlocked,) for other members to help you.

There are grey areas in both Low Thyroid (Hypothyroidism) and B12 Deficiency that Doctors do not acknowledge or miss, leaving many of us ill.

[Cariadrose in reply to Coastwalker]

Thank you, that's really interesting. I have had vitamin d deficiency in the past. Will update when I get my results.