Is fatigue and 'heavy limbs' part of the deal too?

Yes, Jo, I'm afriad it does get tedious. Try to breathe deeply and take it in your stride. (In fact my stride was the first place I had to take it, when I noticed i couldn't project myself forward properly while walking.)

And unfortunately the fatigue is part of the package too - not all the time but certain times of day, usually mornings, and only for a while. It will go.

I don't recall heavy limbs as such, though. That could be the naproxen.

If possible bring someone with you to your first appt with your rheumy and take notes. A second person can create a bit more space for either of you to ask whatever questions you need answers to. Write them down ahead of time.

And be kind to yourself and rest a lot.

Hi Jo,

Yes fatigue is definately part of the deal. 

Don't know about heavy limbs and shoulders.

That sounds more like PRM.  

You'll have to see what the Doctor says.

I hope you feel better soon. 

That's funny you use the word game. I called it an adventure. You never know what's going to hurt when you wake up in the morning. The fatigue is part of it, your body is constantly fighting itself.  I don't have heavy limbs though. I fought taking the drugs but the pain got so bad I ended up listening to the doctor.  Good Luck. 

Hi jo17130,

it gets even more boring after nearly 30 years. Af far as fatigue is concerned (weariness and heavy limbs) yes, it is part of the deal. I've never taken naproxen myself, so don't know what the side effects are.   As well as twinges and aches, the pains that feel like your joint is broken and immovable are worse. If you are diagnosed with RA, the consultant will put you on DMARDs, Disease Modifying anti Rheumatic Drugs, such as Salazapyrin, Methotrexate, or Leflunomide. These dampen down the immune system and help prevent joint damage and the worst symptoms. All the best.

I wouldn't blame the Naproxen. Blame the "possible RA." Until you get it under control, inflammation/pain will continue. An Rx for NSAIDS is not the answer [although it might give a little help until you see a rheumatologist]. Any autoimmune form of arthritis typically will make you feel lethargic. That's why it's important to get the right diagnosis and the right  treatment very early [not to mention that you need to halt the disease's progression].

How long do you hae to wait for an appointment with a rheumatologist? [They are referring you to one, right?]

When I was diagnosed at the age of 36, back in 1987, my rheumatoid factor was negative, but my ESR crept up to 85 until my GP referred me to a consultant. After starting DMARDs, it rapidly reduced to about 30 something.