Update - why do answers take so long?!

[Livesoncoffee]

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!

[tyncwmmarchhywel]

So sorry you are not well, it seems going private is mor or less common. The fatigue is horrid knocks all the confidence out of you, take care.

[Livesoncoffee in reply to tyncwmmarchhywel]

thank you

[Hidden]

I was diagnosed with Stills in 1979 aged 17. I’m 60 now and drug free apart from pain relief. The first sign was a sore throat. I’ve had sore throats ever since and when it worsens I know a flare up is coming and all associated AI conditions I have flare at the same time.

Please ask me any questions you have.

[Livesoncoffee in reply to Hidden]

thank you PM sent

[smilelines]

My rheumatologist has changed her diagnosis a few times based on how the disease is presenting itself over time. I hope they can figure something out for you soon.