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Is it my imagination?

Posted , 5 users are following.

Jan999
Jan999

I recently had a blood test that revealed I had a rheumatoid factor of 24. The normal is up to 22 apparently. This would possibly account for the painful shoulder I've had for over 2 years. I've also noticed recently that I've had pain in my feet as well. Anyway my GP felt a referral to a rheumatologist wasn't going to achieve anything as the RF was only slightly raised. However over the last 10 days or so I've started to experience terrible back and hip pain. It's definitely not muscular as I can tell it's in the bony area. The Naproxen 250 mgms and codeine are not helping.

My questions are, is it possible for RA to affect the hips and back (it may seem a silly question but I'm new to all this) and should I have been referred?

Would be glad of any advice.

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • mandy40337
    mandy40337 Jan999

    Posted

    Hi Matron

    I have recently be diagnosed myself and waiting to see the rheumatologist, thought I dont know what my reading was. The links on this site should tell you everything you need to know. Also, you can download pdf's which tell you absolutely everything about everything too.

    I am just getting to grips with all the info, and have found [u]this[/u] site and its members to be a fantastic source of information - and support. I was scared at first, but Im not now as I know that the damage to your body can be halter to a degree by taking prescribed medication.

    Make sure you register here to receive new strands too, as this will enable you to hear about treatment, progress and the good as well as any bad.

  • slm222
    slm222 Jan999

    Posted

    Hi Matron,

    I was recently diagnosed with RA myself after a year and a half of pain that started in the hands and then began getting into every joint in my body. In answer to your question, No. It is not your imagination and Yes, it is typical for the pain to be just about anywhere and everywhere. Ask for a referral to a Rheumatologist. I live in the USA and the blood tests that I had showed that 14 was actually the upper normal. Mine was at 28 a year ago. Now it's at 40. Don't wait for your doctor to make the decision. Unfortunately we all have to be our own best doctor at times like these. Good luck to you and let us know what you find!

  • Jan999
    Jan999

    Posted

    Thank you everyone for your replies. I think I do need to insist on a referral and my pain relief to be increased!
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