Not rheumatoid arthritis...?

I went for my appointment at rheumatology today.

The registrar doesn't think it is rheumatoid arthritis which is a relief...

However, he has mentioned 3/4 possibilities and done some blood tests. I am to go back in 6 weeks for a follow up.

He thinks it could be Raynauds/Scleroderma (whilst Raynauds would be a relief, Scleroderma sounds scary), inflammatory arthritis or Lupus (which sounds even scarier).

So I just have to wait now... He said it sounds a lot like Raynauds but there are symptoms of Scleroderma there too...

I only know about Raynaud's because I was diagnosed last year, but since getting my fleece lined leather gloves it's so much better (says she with her toes wrapped in a fleece as she can't feel them lol).

Well your getting abit nearer to finding out the problem hun, thats a positive thing. how are your hands?

*Hugs* Lottie I know exactly what you're going through as I've been down that road myself - Lupus looked likely (and my brother has it) but I was told 2 weeks ago tomorrow actually that I have Multiple sclerosis, so I'm kinda in shock myself right now, and I know how scary it can all seem. hopefully it'll be one of the 'lesser' evils for you. Take care sweetie XXX

Thanks guys,

Thanks Lynn, they're not too bad at the moment. Not half as bad as they were but still look a bit yucky and I can definitely feel the swelling in them.

Thankfully not as painful as they have been... I've been using some thinsulate gloves that a friend left behind when she visited! I'll have to ask her where she got them!

The problem is, gloves are no good when you're dealing with money in a shop or trying to reward the dogs that you're being paid to train so my mum's ordered some self heating gloves with fingers but have the fingertips open so I can wear them while I'm working and training!

Thanks Kath,

Sorry to hear about your diagnosis ((Big hugs back))

Thanks Hun, Let us know how you get on. XX

I bet the cold weather we've been having hasn't helped either. those gloves sound good ,hope they help, you will have to train the dogs to take the money lol