Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

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TWGarrett 09/02/2010

I was dx about 6 months ago with Fibromyalgea. I have been in a flare up for about 2 weeks.Last Mon. my doctor had more blood work done.I received a call acouple of hours ago I am positive for Rheumatoid Arthritis. When the flare up is gone will there be permanant damage. I don't know what to expect.Can anyone tell me a good website to read up on what to expect? My feet hurt and are swollen. I don't know if I should stay off of them.

deleted_user 09/02/2010

TW, A great site for info is arthrithisfoundation.org and webmd. In addition to those this site is helpful because you interact with real people and how they approach this disease.

May I suggest doing your homework and finding as much out about the disease that you can. That way you will not be blindsided by your doctor and able to contribute to the treatment you receive.

lycesq 09/02/2010

Bizemomm is so right - Knowledge is power when it comes to RA so read, read, read.

Lynne

phandbj 09/03/2010

Yes can't stress enough ...Read Read Read is right.
I am new at this too . Try Google Rheumatoid Arthritis

CharlieBaxter 09/03/2010

I would recommend you stay off the feet until a rheumy can check you over and get you on some meds. I no longer work because of the RA in my feet and ankles. I was told that continued work like I was doing could result in a wheel chair. Have you had any MRI's or any check of the damage to the joints yet?? Let us know, we are here for you. Take care, Charlie

CharlieBaxter 09/03/2010

http://arthritis.about.com/od/arthritislearnthebasics/u/arthritis_symptoms_diagnosis.htm#s6

Here is a link to a great web site. Charlie

deleted_user 09/03/2010

This website www.rawarrior.com is my favorite. It has links and articles to everything.

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