Hi I'm new to all of this.
I'm really glad I found this site! You guys are really wonderful! I have nothing to complain about as I have very little going on right now. I want to say, though, that you guys have already helped me for when I do experience any real problems. Thanks, in advance!!
I was diagnosed with MCTD in Oct. 2008.
I was told I have Lupus and RA and osteo of the knee.
I am not able to communicate well with my rheumy. Unfortunately there are very few rheumatologists in my area.
How can I have RA if I don't have redness or warmth in the joints that hurt?
I've had some pain in my shin and upper outer thigh. I assume that is the lupus since it is not even in a joint.
I have refused to take the methotrexate that he prescribed because I need my immune system to fight the infections I get in my legs from lymphedema.
Does anyone else have a problem with lymphedema too?
I'm about to get an appointment with another rheumy to get a 2nd opinion on the meds I should take.
I'm taking 600 mg ibuprofein right now and prilosec for my stomach (my primary insisted).
My diagnosis story is out of the ordinary. I'll explain sometime.
I appreciate any help you can give me.
Sylvia
I'm so sorry to hear about your health, I have a not so pleasant Rhuemy too that I have never been back to since I was diagnosed, as my own Primary Dr fills my prescriptions and orders my lab work. Unless there is something my own Dr can not deal with then I might reconsider going back to him, but what I need for my pain and symptoms my Primary can take care of me.
You brought up a good question on your knee. I went Googling and found this information:Signs and Symptoms
A normal knee glides smoothly because cartilage covers the ends of the bones that form joints. Osteoarthritis damages this cartilage, progressively wearing it away. The ends of the bones become rough like sandpaper. This damaged cartilage can cause the joint to "stick" or lock and your knee may get painful, stiff and lose range of motion.
If your knee is severely damaged by arthritis or injury, it may be hard for you to perform simple activities such as walking or climbing stairs. You may even begin to feel pain while you're sitting or lying down. Symptoms may include:
* Severe knee pain that limits your everyday activities, including walking, going up and down stairs, and standing up from a chair. You may find it hard to walk more than a few blocks without significant pain and you may need to use a cane or walker.
* Moderate or severe knee pain while resting, day or night.
* Chronic knee inflammation and swelling that doesn't improve with rest or medications.
* Knee deformity a bowing in or out of your knee.
* Knee stiffness inability to bend and straighten your knee.
* Failure to get pain relief from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These medications, including aspirin and ibuprofen, often are most effective in the early stages of arthritis. Their effectiveness varies from person to person and may become less effective for patients with severe arthritis.
Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007
I found you some links on your Lymphedema as I don't think I have much information on the site regarding the inflammation. (looks painful!)
http://www.pitt.edu/~genetics/lymph/
http://www.clt-lana.org/
http://www.lymphnet.org/
Please keep us posted on how you are doing and any updates as I'd be intrested in learning more about Lymphedema.
Glad you are here!
Kathy
Lupus & MCTD Q & A