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Date: 17.02.2012
From: Spacegirl

Subject: Advice getting a diagnosis, please help

I have recently been tested for Carpal Tunnel and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome as my symptoms were all wrists, arms, shoulder pain and numbness. But lately I have had symmetrical pain in knees and ankles, lots of burning sensations, shooting pains and am very stiff and slow when moving around. The pains in wrists and shoulders are still there, I also get crepitis in both knees and osteoarthritis was confirmed in one knee after an arthroscopy last year, that knee has never healed and now the pains have returned. I think it may be Rheumatoid Arthritis. Am currently waiting for test results of an artery scan (was last seen by a Thoracic surgeon who advised he thinks it polyathralgia, but since I saw him my pain has moved into other joints and got worse). Until I get these results I feel I cannot go back to the GP for a referral to a Rheumatologist as nothing is confirmed and my surgery only has a locum who cant get me out of the room quick enough. However the pain is becoming unbearable, I feel sore and stiff all the time and night times are so painful I am waking in the night. Painkillers and Ibuprofen are not working and I don't know what to do to get tested for R.A. Please help!
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Date: 22.02.2012
From: Sue

Subject: Re: Advice getting a diagnosis, please help

Hi

My GP took blood tests and I was then referred to the rheumy who from what I'd told him and the blood results and my anti CCP levels confirmed I had very active RA. Painkillers didn't touch the pain either. I suggest you ask your GP to test your Anti CCP levels and ask to be referred to a Rheumy. Thats the only way forward. I used to keep a diary highlighting which joints were painful and the level of pain between 1-5 and how it restricted my movement. I summarised it all when I went to see him and it stopped me rambling and I was able to tell him everything concisely.

Go and see your GP and get the ball rolling!!

Sue
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