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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rose07042k
rose07042k

Hi.


I am new. I have a concern and don't know what to do. Early this year I saw a rheumatologist and she exam me and said so signs of arthritis. She said blood test she a small concern for autoimmune issue. By May I notice my left hand pointer finger having problems bending especially when I wake up. I have not told anyone at all. Not even my PCP. Because of COIVD I have to be on. The rheumatologist I say as of July this year does not take my Insurance. Due to a certain medical issues I have I can't see any new doctor who requires me to do face to face or blood test which has to be done in the Community. Should I be concerned with finger? Will I be ok until I am able to see a doctor face to face? Is there anything I can do to help myself until I can see a doctor? Thanks in advance for any help or advice.

WarriorGal
WarriorGal
RA does come on quickly - but rather rarely. More generally, it proceeds at a sow to moderate pace. No need to panic.

Get the results of the blood tests you were given. That could give some of us here some idea what you are dealing with. A "small concern" is an odd response to blood work for autoimmune disease. Did that doc mention any medication? You shoul dbe able to phone that doctor and let him or her know that a finger now hurts and they could prescribe something based on that and your blood work if it seems appropriate. This should be able to eb accomplished via phone or telemed.

Also, running your finger under warm water upon awakening can help with morning stiffness. If it's very painful you can get Voltaren over the counter (though not cheap). It's a topical ointment.

Not sure what you mean by: "Because of COIVD I have to be on."

Bottom line - you should be fine until you can see a doctor in person and shoul dbe able to talk to them in the meantime.
rose07042k
rose07042k
Thanks. I am on my table and it changes words sometimes. The blood test was done earlier this year and that Doctor I can't see anymore. Because of COVID I have to stay home and can't see a new doctor. Thanks, I will try your suggestions. Have a great day.

Second blood test could not be done and I have to wait after the virus to find a new rheumatologist. I appreciate your help
rose07042k
rose07042k
Warrior, I tried it and thank you. I did it yesterday and this morning. Instead of running warn water I warmed up some water and put my finger in it. It made a big difference.
WarriorGal
WarriorGal
I'm glad!
CharlotteM
CharlotteM
Neither of my pointer fingers bend any more, I thought it was usual with RA.
rose07042k
rose07042k
Wow, for me its only my left one. But what Warrior encourage me to do helps. I was never diagnosed with RA. But once I see a new rheumatologist I will tell him/her. I noticed that some of my other fingers on my left hand hurts a little.