Can rheumatoid arthritis cause my body stiffness?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am suffering from generalized body stiffness and confirmed arthritis in the back. The arthritis in my back has been present for 12 years now. Can the symptoms be of rheumatoid arthritis? I was taking medication for the condition but I stopped taking them to focus on the present ailment of stiffness. I had a talk with my general practitioner. After numerous consultations with the general practitioner, everything seems to be related to arthritic pain. It feels as if it has spread everywhere. I have details about my bloodwork, at first, we thought it was blood sugar related, but being stiff all over is not related to it. It is arthritic in nature is what I believe.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

I went through your post and investigations, let us look at what we have as of now. (Attachments removed to protect the patient's identity).

You have joint pains and arthritis which you have mentioned which is swelling and pain of joints. Do you have an early morning stiffness?
You have not been investigated for arthritis we need to conduct more investigations such as anti-CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide), RF (rheumatoid factor), CRP (C-reactive protein), ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), ANA HEp-2 (antinuclear antibody) and HLA-B 27 (human leukocyte antigen). (Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her, and take the investigations with their consent.)

Without investigations, we cannot say which type of arthritis you have and how to treat it. I hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I would suggest you collect the reports when available and let me know, we will talk again about this. Also, mention a detailed history of your illness and answer the following questions:

How did it start?
Which joints are affected?
Is there a family history?
Is there a rash or skin disease?

Please mention all the details. I hope this helps you. Do write back with the answers.

Take care.