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EMG done today

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Guest
Guest

I got my EMG done today to see if I am having nerve damage in my arms from RA. The doc told me that my nerves are fine except a little bit of carpel tunnel but that did not explain the symptoms I was having. He determined that it is more than likely tendonitis caused from the RA. I am going to give it some time for the report to get to my doctor and then i will call him and try to get an appt so we can talk about maybe changing my meds. The way I understand it mextro is the next step up from plaqineil and is mild compared to most of the meds. From reading on here most people do not think it is that bad. I really didn't think tendonitis would hurt that bad but guess it does.

1 like, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • kim14519
    kim14519 Guest

    Posted

    Hello.  Not sure what your symptoms are and I'm no expert but having problems with the right hand in particular.  Had nerve tests and all fine so Orthopaedic Consultant says definitely not carpal tunnel (although my symptoms very similar to my brother's and he did have it) and nor is it my RA.  He's referred me to Neurosurgeons as he believes that it's a pinched nerve caused by a bulging disc in my neck and when I hesitated at the prospect of surgery on my spine he said that he would definitely have it done as I stood to lose a lot more than I have at present.  Have you seen a specialist or just GP?  (The first ŊP I saw said it might take a month or 3 to get better so I lost a month before seeing another GP who referred me to the hospital where I had a MRI scan done on my neck (due to chronic neck problem of old and Orth Surgeon's original diagnosis of pinched nerve) but I couldn't stay in long enough because of RA dry mouth.  I then had nerve tests done and they were okay.  Waiting for neuro appointment.  Also trying to talk to RA dept for another steroid injection (in wrist) and will try for advice on whether RA can cause this.  I've noticed other people on this forum with similar problems and wonder if there IS a RA connection.  Don't know if this helps.
    • Guest
      Guest kim14519

      Posted

      kim, the EMG showed negative for nerve damage and the doctor said it is probably tendonitis from RA. I researched it and it seems to be common among RA people. I have a appt with my GP this Friday and since it has not let up in over a month I am going to request a shot in the shoulder. I have never had a shot directly in the joint yet so i am hoping this will work. Pain pills are ineffective. I was given Norco 325mg and it doesn't work. BTW, what is RA dry mouth?
    • kim14519
      kim14519 Guest

      Posted

      Hi River22.  It's where insufficient saliva is produced to keep the mouth wet and is usually combined with dry eyes (which actually manifested itself when I appeared to be permanently in floods of tears!)  I find that when I'm sleeping my mouth dries and everything sticks together leading to me waking up feeling as though I can't breathe (my tongue feels as though it's stuck to the roof of my muth).  It's a bit scary but I use false tears and nasal cream four times a day and a mouth wash twice a day as I'm prone to infections due to the lack of saliva.  Also have to be extra careful with dental care.  I also try to drink plenty of water.  Good luck with the shot and hope that you get relief.
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