Just though I would give an update following my post two months ago - is it RA?
ASO titre came back as elevated so had a course of antibiotics for potential strep throat. Even tho no changes for the sore throats.
Decided to go private, seen rheumatologist, suspects reactive arthritis, ordered more bloods and full viral screens (all clear). Ultrasounds showed no permeant damage and wanted a review in 3 weeks.
Unfortunately I ended up being admitted to hospital with an infection, elevated heart rate and joint pain a week and a half after the appointment. They treated for tonsillitis with the same antibiotic i had just finished the week before - I don't believe it was tonsillitis as it made no difference to the sore throat. However i did get to see a rheumatologist 3 days in a row and an urgent appointment within 4 weeks of d/c so no longer need to go private - they have started me on steroids, stopped naproxen and started codeine. The stiffness doesn't seem to be as bad but the pain is still there - i know about an hour before pain relief is due. Heat packs are a life saver! Still no diagnosis - apparently I meet the criteria for rheumatic fever (pocket of fluid on my heart) but they aren't treating me for it, potentially could be still's as ferritin slightly elevated or seronegative RA!
ASO titre remains the same and hasn't increased or decreased since 2 course of pencillin v - so thats another mystery! Waiting further bloods which had to be sent to England - Im in NI.
Anyone any suggestions on what i could be looking for? pushing for answers? Its now 9th week of joint pain - hands, wrists, elbow, one shoulder occasionally, knees and one hip - feet and ankles occasionally. The codeine and steroids are wrecking havock with my taste and appetite - the fluid retention is unreal! not to mention the fatigue.
Thanks for any suggestions!
Steroids 
I am new to this site and RA. For years I have suffered phases of extreme pain in my feet, hands and elbows.
Nodules on palm
Just arrived
