Diagnosis confirmed a year after onset of symptoms

[Sunnyseas]

Reading posts here it seems very common that a diagnosis is difficult or delayed. I’ve found it hard having symptoms and not knowing for sure what is going on.

Over a year ago a blood test showed high for RF factor but because the ultrasound was clear I’ve been treated for fibromyalgia & possible inflammatory arthritis. They said not ra.

After continuing symptoms, hands, wrists, ankle pain, and not being able to get an appointment with the rheumatologist I went private. He was sure very quickly that it is ra and wants me to move from hcq to mtx, it isn’t controlled well enough.

It’s a lot to take in. On one hand I was hoping it wasn’t ra, but on the other I suppose I knew deep down it was ra & it’s a relief to finally have a diagnosis. Something to work with, accept.

[Mmrr]

I'm sorry that you have RA Sunnyseas, but it is good that the consultant has considered you holistically and is offering appropriate treatment. Hopefully you will begin to improve soon with MTX, do let us know how you get on?

[Neonkittie17]

Sorry you have RA but you can start to control it now and not let it control you, and hoping you’re on Mtx soon. I felt the same relief after waiting almost a year for the diagnosis back in 1995.

[stbernhard]

Hello Sunnyseas, welcome to the family. I can see from your msg that you have a positive, accepting attitude. That is a great bonus. MTX will take some time to work to its maximum. There can be ups and downs. In my experience, knowing as much as you can about RA is of huge benefit to you and your care team. If you haven't already done so, I would recommend that you have a look on the NRAS website. There is almost everything there is to know about RA and it is a reliable source of information. There's also an app developed by Ampersand with the NHS and NRAS that May be of use to you. I find it a great tool for many things, but in particular as a daily journal of symptom, pain mood etc.Sorry for the long preaching. I was diagnosed n 2009 and am in remission since 2014. I don't even think about having RA most days and live a very active life with very few restrictions. I hope you'll be in the same situation soon. All the best.

[stbernhard]

The app is called "MyArthritis"

[Garnacha in reply to stbernhard]

Thanks stbernhard didnt know about this app, just downloaded it, hope it works for PsA too

[springcross]

After several months of not knowing for sure and probably feeling left up in the air about things, hopefully now you've had the diagnoses (unfortunate as it is) eventually, when the MTX has had time to get into your system, you'll find much needed relief. 🤞 All the best Sunnyseas. x