Hi Everyone. I am a 21 year old female, usually fit and well, I exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet. No history of illness.
I have been suffering with RA like symptoms for the last 3 months. I have had scans and blood tests which show nothing significant, however I have all the hallmark symptoms of symmetrical joint stiffness in the morning that lasts longer than 45 mins, joint pain (knees, thumbs, wrists, elbows, big toes) joint redness, swelling in finger joints, fatigue etc.
Doctors have told me that there is nothing they can do because I don’t have positive blood markers so currently I’m hoping supplements will help until I can get further help.
I’m aware that seronegative RA exists but my GP does not wish to even contemplate it as he doesn’t have the typical blood markers or signs in front of him, despite pictures of my symptoms.
Any advice would be appreciated as I am getting so deflated by my lack of success in a diagnosis.
I have attached a pic of my knee redness (ignore the bruises, I fell over on ice)
Thanks
Hi Beth, perhaps you might show a GP what NRAS (National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society) has to say regarding symptoms and seronegative RA.?
It sounds as if you need urgent referral to Rheumatology for specialist diagnosis even if not RA. There are hundreds of conditions that include symptoms of joint swelling and pain.
Here’s NRAS link to article on diagnosis. nras.org.uk/seropositive-se...
Best of luck!
Sometimes we are forced to push hard for diagnosis.
Thank you for your response. It is nice to know that others are supportive. I will try my best to discuss this when I get the chance to see my rheum. Doc
Are you in the UK? You say you have a rheumatologist.....has your GP referred you to the rheumy for his opinion.....if not I’d ask very firmly that be done ASAP.