Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I was first diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at 41, and it started mainly in my hands and wrists. Now I am 48, and in the last year my knees started hurting too, then my ankles, and now, randomly, my jaw, of all places, has been aching when I chew.
My last labs showed 3.1 and 92. I am on Methotrexate already, but it does not seem like it is reaching everything.
Why do my rheumatoid arthritis symptoms keep spreading to new joints at 48, even when I am already on medication?
Is this normal?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I see your point.
It can. New joints can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis over time if the inflammation is not fully controlled, even while taking Methotrexate. Your elevated rheumatoid factor and C-reactive protein indicate that some disease activity is still present, which could explain why your knees, ankles, and even your jaw are now being affected.
I did get in to see your rheumatologist soon. They may have to change the dose of your Methotrexate or add another drug, such as a biologic or targeted therapy, to better control the disease and prevent further joint damage. In the meantime, let them know right away if you have significant swelling, worsening pain, or difficulty opening your mouth.
I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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