I'm 28 years old and recently visited a Primary Care Doctor for chronic, intense joint pain that seemed to be worsening over time. It took about 3-4 months of daily joint pain (knees, wrists, hips, ankles) for me to finally decide that something needed to be done. My Primary Care Doctor did an exam, history, ordered blood tests, and prescribed Ultram and Ibuprofin. My RF was 21 and I had a positive ANA. She referred me to a rheumatologist
The rheumatologist ordered xrays and another battery of bloodwork. RF was 24, positive ANA, and positive SS-B. Because I presented with good range of motion and no joint inflamation, he thinks I have mild Rheumatoid arthritis or Lupus. I was given Prednisone and Plaquenil. No pain meds, the prednisone makes a difference but I waws still in chronic pain. I refilled my Ultram from Dr #1 and that combined with the steriods gave me life back. There are some days where I do nothing in the morning until the stiffness passes and the Ultram kicks in, and some nights I don't sleep very much at all. But the daytime hours are much better.
At the end of March I return to the rheumatologist to check on my progress.
