[Rhapsody]

Rheumatoid warning signs can represent a worsening or complications of the rheumatoid disease, side effects of medications, or a new illness that is complicating the condition of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis should be aware of these rheumatoid warning signs so that they can contact their healthcare practitioner before their health is jeopardized.

Here are some warning signs that should inform a patients when to call their doctor:

1. Worsening of Joint Symptoms

2. Lack of Improvement of Joint Symptoms

3. Fever: A true fever (temp above 100.4 degrees)

4. Numbness or Tingling

5. Rash

6. Eye Redness

7. Nausea

8. Vomiting

9. Diarrhea

10. Constipation

11. Dark Stools

12. Insomnia

13. Dizziness, Lightheadedness, Ringing in the Ears

14. Headache

15. Infection

16. Cough or Chest Pain

17. Limited ROM - Range of Motion

18. Vision Loss of Red/Green Color Distinction: If taking Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil).

* * * * * * * *

[InACorner]

Thank you so much...Do you also know if you can feel these symptoms one day...but also feel good the day? Or is this an every day occurance? I can feel these symptoms up to a few days a week...however the next few days after those feel fine, just alittle weak and tired.

I have 9 symptoms... how good or bad is that?

[Becca07]

I'm certainly not an expert in RA, but in my experience, many illnesses tend to go through flares of symptoms and then there are periods where you feel ok. So don't dismiss your symptoms just because you have some good days too.

[Rhapsody]

</font><blockquote><div id="quote"><font class="small">Quote:</font>
InACorner said:
Thank you so much...Do you also know if you can feel these symptoms one day...but also feel good the day? Or is this an every day occurance? I can feel these symptoms up to a few days a week...however the next few days after those feel fine, just alittle weak and tired.

I have 9 symptoms... how good or bad is that?

</div></font></blockquote><font class="post">

YES..... you can have some days that are bad and some days that are good and all within one week - symptoms of RA can even stay around for weeks or months and then pass and not be seen for 6 months - every person that has RA is different.

I have had Arthritis since I was 12 years old and I have been dealing with severe RA for the last ten - and I take LIFE and RA as it comes at me, with the good and the bad.... I do what I can when I am able and I let it slide when I am unable.

The list I placed on here was meant more for people that already have a Dx of RA - and then their symptoms become worse.... as the list shows, one should call their doctor (their Rheumatologist) if their quality of daily living becomes effected.

Having 9 of the symptoms listed above does not necessarily mean that YOU have RA, but it is a warning sign that you should see your GP for a check-up and blood work.... RA is Dx by taking your history into account and with blood work (if one meets at least 7 of the 10 items that blood work shows they can be Dx with RA by a doctor) - as in my case, I meet all but one of them.

LoVe,
Rhapsody -

[InACorner]

((((hugs to both of you))) I completely understand it is meant for already dx of RA, I definitly do not want to self diagnosis myself or anything because i do know it could be a multiude of things. Thank you.

love, Inny

[(JD)]

oh goodness! If I called my doctor everytime these symptoms occurred she'd probably want to know why .. My PT says I have some RA... along with all the other stuff. I tend to ignore it as it will get treated (or not) with the other... I have to focus on what screams the loudest at the time.

(((gentle hugs)))

[Rhapsody]

Hmm -

I am not sure that someone can have a touch of RA......... that would be like being a little bit pregnant.

in the case of RA and Pregnancy - either you have it or you don't - lol.

LoVe,
Rhapsody -

[(JD)]

A "touch" would be not in all joints etc?

[bflatgary]

No touches. You have it or you don't.

I was diagnosed about two years ago. It has affected everything I do. I own a business, and it RA severely restricted my activity.

I have good days and bad days. Today is relatively good. I have a swollen right wrist and right knee, so I have some walking issues. Before I got my current medication, methotrexate, I was having major problems daily. Mothotrexate has helped me get under control, and be able to proceed with my life.

[(JD)]

Criminy! OK OK I HAVE RA. It's still not in every joint so it IS by all standards (old as they may be ) a TOUCH of rheumie.

I'm sorry for those who have it full blown throughout their bodies. (((gentle hugs))) but please don't insist you know what I have or not ok?

Pals?