Tell us about your symptoms and treatment experience. Take our survey here.

Undiagnosed Pain

So here is my story: July 3, 2018, I wake up with terrible wrist pain in my right wrist. It was so bad that I could not do hardly anything. I was very concerned; I could not even write. I went to my PA and we had an x-ray done, believing somehow I had broken my wrist. No broken bones, so I was given the diagnosis of tendinitis and placed on prednisone dose pack. As soon as the pack was over, the pain began again, along with swelling. The swelling was so bad I had to get my wedding ring cut off, and now the pain is symmetrical. I went back to the doctor because the pain was so bad and I could not sleep, work, or do anything for the pain. I was put on meloxicam and had several labs performed. They stated that there was no RA. Still no explanation as to why I was swelling and my joints aching.

First diagnosis

So off to Rheumatologist #1. Again, labs were done, no med change, but the diagnosis of Raynaud's was given. Still, no one is listening to me about the symptoms and how it is affecting me. How the pain is not just on the side, it's both, and how the weather plays such a huge part in it.

Second opinion

Not satisfied, I made an appointment with Rheumatologist #2. Now I was feeling good about this doctor. I had my records and he read them as I was getting x-rays and scans. I felt he was listening!!! So he schedules me to have nerve conduct testing. I go and the doctor performing the test told me what his findings were and what he felt. "There is a slim chance it is coming from your neck." Now does this mean it is coming from my neck? No, he is just saying there is a slim chance. Now I have had a ruptured disc and bulging disc. I do know what that feels like and these symptoms are not the same.

Less pain, still undiagnosed

So after a year of going full-circle, I am back at my doctor. I have been researching PsA and feel really strongly that this is the diagnosis. My doctor and I discussed this and have made a game plan. I was placed on a small dose of prednisone for days and he will research. So far, the prednisone has relieved the joint pain some but not totally, and with it being summer and all the rain it definitely doesn't help. I do have more symptoms than joint pain. So I patiently wait to see the outcome. Meanwhile, I ache each day constantly. The sad thing is no one really knows how I feel and just because I come into work and do my writing and typing that I am not really hurting. Here's to some answers soon.

By providing your email address, you are agreeing to our privacy policy.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Psoriatic-Arthritis.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.

Community Poll

How does fatigue affect you? Check all that apply