Could the swelling and pain in wrists and fingers be due to RA?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am concerned about my hands. For the past three months, my wrists and fingers have been extremely painful, especially in the mornings when they are too stiff to move properly. My joints are swollen and red, and it takes me almost an hour just to get moving. I am 35 years old, and this pain is making it difficult to use my computer or even hold a pencil. I have noticed that my hands look different and seem to bend slightly to the side. My mother had some joint problems when she was younger, so I am becoming scared. I have been taking pain medications, but they do not seem to help much.

Last week, my blood tests showed something called rheumatoid factor at 78 IU/mL (I believe this is high?), and my CRP level was 15 mg/L. I am tired all the time and losing weight without trying. I used to be very active, doing yoga and running every morning, but now I can barely get out of bed. The stiffness is worse in the morning, and it feels like my joints are made of concrete. My fingers appear puffy and red, and I am worried that this could be something serious. My doctor said I should get more tests, but I am scared of what they might find. Please help me understand what is happening to my body and if this is rheumatoid arthritis. What should I do next?

Kindly provide your guidance.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Well, the investigations will help you understand your body by assessing the vital signs and giving your body more time to heal. There is a possibility of developing arthritic changes in the body at this stage, but you need to take tests to confirm it. You can try physiotherapy sessions to help ease the symptoms. Meanwhile, I suggest you follow the below-mentioned instructions:

Exercise regularly twice a day.
Start with very light, active exercises focused solely on mobilizing the joints.
Apply cold and hot packs alternately to relieve pain and swelling. Moist packs are more reliable.
Eat nutritious food that is rich in anti-inflammatory properties.
Drink plenty of water and avoid cold foods and drinks.
Practice regular breathing exercises and stretching exercises.

I hope this has helped you.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.