My mother has RA. I have alot of stiffness in my back, especially in the morning. I have stiffness in my knees although not as severe as my back. My upper thigh hurts at night, when I lay on either side. I am tired alot.
11/ 4/09 10:46am
For more information, check out our section about the basics of RA. It's quite common for the disease to be very hard to catch in the beginning - it sort of plays hide and seek. However, swelling from joint inflammation does tend to be a major indicator of RA, so you not having any makes the issue a little iffy. There are many other things that can cause the symptoms you describe, so don't be too worried yet.
However, I do agree that you should see a doctor soon as possible to get checked out and ask for some blood tests, especially considering that your mother has RA. Please be aware that approximately 20% of people who have RA are seronegative, which means their RA does not show up in the blood work, so if your tests are negative and you still feel that you need to be seen by a rheumatologist, request that your doctor give you a referral.
10/30/09 8:46am
It is quite possible. Get your blood tests done and start the investigation.
11/17/09 5:10pm
I was diagnoised in June 2008, at that time I was in severe pain and had a little inflammation (but my sed rate was within range). My Ra Factor was 252 and my CCP was greater than 100.
Here I am 18 months later, several DMARDs later, taking Enbrel injections weekly, and I still have pain daily. But, my sed rate has never been high and it's always within range. So for me, that sed rate doesn't mean that I'm not in pain because I am.
This disease just blows my mind........you just never know what to expect.
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
By 2blue4u— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 10/30/09
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
