Hello everyone. I was diagnosed with RA back in 2014. Rheumatoid factor 94. Anticccp 120. It effected my left lung mainly (bronchiectasis). A few months ago I started feeling pain at the soles of my feet when waking up. Now my wrists, feet and right elbow hurt. My right hands pinky finger was swollen for a few weeks and now is a bit deformed. My left hands ring finger is also now swollen. My symptoms get better as the day progresses. I took Naproxen for a week but my ears started ringing so my Gp discontinued it
I’m very confused. Does RA cause pain ALL over the body. I googled my symptoms and got even more confused. A few diseases have similar symptoms. I would really really appreciate your thoughts. Thank you much.
(My Rheumatologists phone appointment is still weeks ahead)
Written by
ks1966
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
If I’m having a bad flare there is no joint that is not effected. It feels like I have the flu it totally floors me. I too get tinnitus with naproxen. Ring your clinic they maybe able to help perhaps a steroid injection While you wait for your consultation. Good luck
Oh yes unfortunately it can affect many joints and organs and more. You don’t say what RA medication you take but it would seem it’s no longer working effectively for you.
I suggest you contact your Rheumatologist and ask for advice.
Yes, I get aches and pains all over my body, joints, muscles, tendons, soft tissues and more. The small joints such as those found in the hands and feet are commonly affected by RA, and are often very troublesome.
I'd say that you need to contact your rheumy/clinic and update them; you don't want to risk joint damage while waiting for your appointment and it sounds like your medication isn't working well.
Yes I'd call the rheumy department as that sounds like a bad flare. There are many other drugs they can give you that wont affect your lungs so ring them and get advice and maybe even a steroid injection to calm down the inflammation. Do look on nras.org.uk for lots of advice on drugs and flare help.
Oh yes everywhere. I was actually referred to a Rheumy after I complained to my ortho Doc about the swelling and pain in my right wrist and my left ring finger was dangerously tight. I also have an odd combo of neuropathy in the souls of my feet but pain and swelling in my ankles. I turned 60 last Nov and was diagnosed with RA in March. On Humeria, MTX, and 10mg of prednisolone. 25 years in the military and RA is a tougher battle.
As you are not on any medication at the moment it does sound as though you have uncontrolled RA running amok in your body.
Do please contact your Rheumatologist straight away and ask to be put on RA medication so you avoid further damage to your joints and organs. There are plenty of others besides methotrexate and I hope you will be lucky with the next one you try. Meanwhile if you are struggling with pain and swelling ask for corticosteroids, either an injection or in tablet form. These will help you feel better and function whilst the RA drug gets to work.
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.