neuropathy?

[Jojosteeler]

I am still awaiting my first rheumatologist appointment. My labs weren’t awful - ANA & CCP negative, but Rheumatoid factor 191 and slightly elevated Sed Rate and C-reactive protein.

I had had very brief (20 seconds or less) bouts of vertigo and 6 falls in 9 months - so my doctor ordered and MRI and had me see a neuro ophthalmologist. He said my brain and my eyes look good, but during my exam he discovered that my sensation is very poor in my feet and ankles and I lack deep tendon reflexes in the feet and ankles - so the diagnosis is peripheral neuropathy - most likely contributing to falls. Once questioned, we realized my sensation has been poor since before my teen years.

The neuropathy is not caused by diabetes (my labs are always great for that) - but he mentioned in passing that neuropathy can be seen in some autoimmune conditions.

Anyone have experience or knowledge of this?

[oldtimer2]

That sounds rather complicated! I think you will have to wait for an expert opinion.....

I know that I was told that I had peripheral neuritis about twenty years into my diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis, but it seems to have improved rather than deteriorating, perhaps due to more adequate treatment of my auto-immune disease.

[Jojosteeler in reply to oldtimer2]

thanks so much for your reply. Honestly….just knowing that is the problem is helpful. Being more conscious of paying attention to how my feet hit the ground and what type of surface I am on is making a big difference.

I went into the neuro appointment saying “I trip and fall all the time. And sometimes I fall without knowing why.” - now I have a reason & can be more careful.

[Leics]

I developed peripheral neuropathy as a result of RA. I don’t have much sensation from my toes to my knees but having said that the RA inflammation pain is worse in my ankles and knees coz they’re the worst problem for me. I was checked out by neuro and had all sorts of blood tests done mainly vitamins but was discharged by them as it’s something I have to put up with. It has improved with RA meds but I think you may have to wait to find out what is causing yours. The reply from oldtimer2 has hit the nail on the head I’m afraid. I’m sorry to hear you have had so many falls and really hope they get to the bottom of it for you.