Joint Pain (fingers, elbow, hip, shoulder, & wrist), Fever, Back of Head Pain, Age 54/Female/Normally Healthy?
913748
First confirm that it is not due to any viral infection, because there is fever. If it is not there it might be rheumatism. Do RA test and ESR. If ESR is high and pain is unstoppable it is rheumatism eventhough RA test is negative. We call it Negative RA. Unfortunately there is no medicine for rheumatism but we treat it with our research. If it confirms you should think visiting us otherwise taking painkillers till death is the only thing you can do. Therefore first confirm it.
1084504
Too many possibilities ... but given your gender age and just a blind hunch, ask your doctor about RA and SLE. He might want to do some blood work and check your ANA values.\n\nDo your joints feel warm to the touch?\nDo you have any unexplained rashes?\n\nYou can send an email to me if you wish to give me more info.
5169
Yes, I would advise you to visit a doctor. If nothing else it will give you more information and piece of mind on your condition.
213210
increased activity, pain, fever, stress
1111080
unfortunately the best pain medication for these types of pain was taken off the market, and nonnarcotic mobic try buying a book from mayo clinic or a holistic health book for rheumatoid atrhitis it should have info about diet also I picked one up for my exboyfriend a couple years ago and it helped him tremendously a little lifestyle change goes a long way
86798
Causes and Risks: \nThe cause of the disease is unknown. It usually affects people of Mediterranean ancestry. Symptoms usually begin between 5 and 15 years old. Inflammation in the lining of the abdominal cavity, chest cavity, or joints occurs. Painful, red swelling of the legs occurs in one-fourth of the affected people. Attacks may vary in severity of symptoms, and people are usually symptom free between attacks. \n\nPrevention: \nThere is no known way to prevent this disorder. \n\nSymptoms: \n\nfever or alternating chills and fever (relapsing) \nabdominal pain \nchest pain that occurs repeatedly (recurrent) \nabdominal pain that is recurrent or with similar pain in past \njoint pain that occurs repeatedly (recurrent) \nhip pain , knee pain , ankle pain , foot pain , pain over the small joints of the foot, shoulder pain , elbow pain , wrist pain , hand pain, pain over the small joints of the hand, or pain in other joints \n\nred, painful, swollen lower legs (excluding joints) \n\n\nSigns and Tests: \nThere is no specific test to diagnose this disease. Elimination of other possible diseases by laboratory tests or X-rays will help determine the diagnosis. \n\nTreatment: \nThe treatment is symptomatic and supportive. A low-fat diet may reduce the number and severity of attacks. The medication colchicine may also reduce the attacks. \n\nPrognosis: \nThe attacks usually run their course without treatment. No medicine to cure the disorder is available. \n\nComplications: \nDiscomfort is the primary complication. \n\nCall Your Healthcare Provider: \nCall your health care provider if symptoms develop (to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms).
134651
I have had Fibro since I was 16, actually 20 years now. It does sound like you have some of the symptoms. I am also wondering if you may have Rhuematiod Arthritis because of the joint involvement. Your headaches may actually be Cluster Headaches if they continue to reoccur frequently and you have a sharp pain around one eye. My clusters usually sit in the back of my head until a spike hits me in the eye (what it feels like). Also, these conditions can co-exist (you can have them both). I don't believe I have ever taken Accutane.\nFibromyalgia associated syndromes\n\nIt is not unusual for fibromyalgia patients to have an array of bodily complaints other than musculoskeletal pain. It is now thought that these symptoms are a result of the abnormal sensory processing – as described in the previous section. Recognition and treatment of these associated problems are important in the overall management of your fibromyalgia. \n\nNon-restorative sleep\nCognitive dysfunction\nChronic fatigue\nCold intolerance\nRestless leg syndrome\nMultiple sensitivities\nIrritable bowel syndrome\nDizziness\nIrritable bladder syndrome\nNeurally mediated hypotension\n\n1. Chronic fatigue: The common treatable cause of chronic fatigue in fibromyalgia patients are: (1) inappropriate dosing of medications (TCAs, drugs with antihistamine actions, benzodiazapines etc.), (2) depression, (3) aerobic deconditioning, (3) a primary sleep disorder (e.g. sleep apnea), (4) non-restorative sleep (see above) and (5) neurally mediated hypotension (see below). A new drug called Provigil is of some help when used intermittently for management of fatigue.\n\n2. Restless leg syndrome: This strictly refers to daytime (usually maximal in the evening) symptoms of (1) unusual sensations in the lower limbs (but can occur in arms or even scalp) that are often described as paresthesia (numbness, tingling, itching, muscle crawling) and (2) a restlessness, in that stretching or walking eases the sensory symptoms. This daytime symptomatology is nearly always accompanied by a sleep disorder - now referred to as periodic limb movement disorder (formerly nocturnal myoclonus). Treatment is simple and very effective – DOPA / Levodopa (Sinemet) in an early evening dose of 10/100 (a minority require a higher dose or use of the long acting preparations).\n\n3. Irritable bowel syndrome: This common syndrome of GI distress that occurs in about 20% of the general population is found in about 60% of fibromyalgia patients. The symptoms are those of abdominal pain, distension with an altered bowel habit (constipation, diarrhea or an alternating disturbance). Typically the abdominal discomfort is improved by bowel evacuation. Due to abnormal sensory processing these symptoms may be quite distressing to fibromyalgia patients. Treatment involves (1) elimination of foods that aggravate symptoms, (2) minimizing psychological distress, (3) adhering to basic rules for maintaining a regular bowel habit, (4) prescribing medications for specific symptoms; constipation (stool softener, fiber supplementation and gentle laxatives such as bisacodyl), diarrhea (loperamide or diphenoxylate) and antispasmodics (dicyclomine or anticholinergic / sedative preparations such as Donnatal).\n\n4. Irritable bladder syndrome: This is found in 40-60% of fibromyalgia patients. The initial incorrect diagnoses are usually recurrent urinary tract infections, interstitial cystitis or a gynecological condition. Once these possibilities have been ruled out a diagnosis of irritable bladder syndrome (also called female urethal syndrome) should be considered. The typical symptoms are those of suprapubic discomfort with an urgency to void, often accompanied by frequency and dysuria. In a sub-population of fibromyalgia patients this is related to a myofascial trigger point in the pubic insertion of the rectus abdominus muscles – and may be helped by a procaine myofascial trigger point injection). Treatment: involves (1) incr
334232
As someone who has had JRA since age 14, and OA since 35, my best advice is exercise and rest.  There is no cure for RA, and it is a mysterious disease, even to doctors.  It is known as an autoimmune disorder, where the body attacks itself, thinking there is an infection, when there is none.  \n\nI truly believe there is a VERY strong correlation between physical, and mental stress, and RA symptoms.  I have had different blood test results at different times, and it didn't always agree with my symptoms.  \n\nTry hot and cold packs for relief without side effects.  Heat draws blood to the joint, and is good for stiffness.  20 minutes maximum, min 10 minutes or until relief is felt.  Ice draws blood away from the joint and is good for when the joints are inflammed, meaning literally hot to the touch.  Ice can provide great relief where prescription medicines fail.  \n\nHave her read a book called the Mind Body Connection, by John Sarno.  There is a great deal of medical evidence that symptoms of asthma and arthritis are directly related to stress and how the body reacts to stress.  \n\nBelieve me, I'm not saying it's in your mind.  These are very real symptoms.  I have spent months on crutches due to its debilitating power.  But I have NOT received any significant or long-term relief from any pill.  Find the root of the cause, and why.  Deal with how you react to stress, and change it.\n\nAgain, as a sufferer of arthritis and asthma for most of my life, I know that doctors will profit from your suffering, but have little to offer in relief.  She needs to think of why this would happen now.  I'm sure the baby has a lot to do with it.  Obviously, or it would never have cropped up.\n\nDo NOT take her to a chiropractor, unless you want to be at their mercy for life.  Good luck and don't forget to breathe!  Breathing delivers oxygen to the tissues and joints, and lack thereof creates pain and injury.
454099
Make sure to follow all of your doctor's directions for medication, etc.  It is a serious disease that causes continuing damage to your joints, which can only be prevented with prescription medication.\n\nThat aside, eating healthy and exercising is the next best thing - work with your doctor to find an exercise program you are comfortable with.  Water aerobics or swimming are great, and even just walking can make a big difference.\n\nVitamin supplements are unproven and generally don't have much effect.  There is very little evidence to support if any of these actually work.  But if you do want to try any of these, do it on top of your regular meds under the guidance of you doctor- don't take anything without consulting him first! They have lots more experience with this disease, and some supplements may actually react with some medications.\n\nNow you also need to deal with this mentally - the best way is to look to your family members for support.  But you can also go to http://www.arthritis.org and visit the RA connect section - they have a message board where you can get lots of emotional support from people who have gone through it too.\n\nGood luck with your treatment!
526272
Fibromyalgia is a commonly encountered disorder characterized by chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, paresthesia, disturbed sleep, and easy fatigability along with multiple painful tender points.\n\nSymptoms are generalized musculoskeletal aching and stiffness and fatigue. Patients may complain of low back pain, which may radiate into the buttocks and legs. Others complain of pain and tightness in the neck and across the upper posterior shoulders. Patients complain of muscle pain after even mild exertion and some degree of pain is always present. The pain has been described as a burning or gnawing pain or as soreness, stiffness, or aching. Pain may begin in one region, such as the shoulders, neck, or lower back before it eventually becomes widespread. Patients may complain of joint pain and perceive that their joints are swollen; however, joint examination yields normal findings. Stiffness is usually present on arising in the morning; usually it improves during the day, but in some patients it lasts all day. Patients may complain of numbness of their hands and feet. They may also feel colder overall than others in the home, and some may experience Raynaud's-like phenomena or actual Raynaud's phenomenon. Patients complain of feeling fatigued and exhausted and wake up tired. They also awaken frequently at night and have trouble falling back to sleep. Patients may experience cognitive impairment with difficulty thinking and loss of short-term memory. Headaches, including migraine type, are also common symptons. Others experience episodes of light-headedness, dizziness, anxiety, or depression. Symptoms are made worse by stress or anxiety, cold, damp weather, and overexertion. Patients often feel better during warmer weather and vacations.
288898
Funny thing is, you might not be. \n\nI was labled as a hypochondriac by some doctors, friends and family and now I can say "raspberries to them" cause I really am sick.\n\nMy illness took 17 doctors and 12 years to figure out. As it turned out, I am the one who figured it out! I have a very long history of being ill. From small things like getting every cold that walks before me to major things like having my thyroid removed..twice! (It actually grew back two times, I am growing it again! Not that I want to..LOL)\n\nIf in fact you are not just "imagining" that you are sick, don't stop asking and learning.\n\nI have about 30+ years of self education in symptoms (I am 45) and I continue to learn every day so I can help my doctors figure out what is wrong cause dang it...there is A LOT wrong!\n\nIf you want to let me know what your symptoms are, I will offer my opinion on what type of doctor to go to or what tests to have run. I might be able to help.\n\nIf in fact you are a hypochondriac, then the simple answer is to follow the above info and find out that in fact..you are fine!
36396
I have had Fibro since I was 16 and am now almost 36. I have the same diagnosises as you including Myofascial Pain Syndrome and others. Actually, MPS should be a given. In my experience pain medications do not work. I have also tried biofeedback, steroid shots, trigger point injections, nerve blocks, accupuncture, foot braces, wrist braces, carpal tunnel release surguries, and so much more. All just torture and I felt like a guinea pig.\nMy best advise is make sure to get plenty of sleep, take a multiple vitamin, keep active in at least low impact sports, and consider Magnesium and Malic Acid supplements (consult the doctor or a nutritionist to have your Magnesuim level checked- it is a simpe mouth swab and not painful), meditation does help some in keeping the pain back if you can seperate your mind from the pain, and try to take 2-3 warm Epson Salt baths a week (Epson salt contains Magnesium and soaking in a warm tub of it helps to get the mineral into the body. Magnesium aids the muscles in using oxygen and when the level is low which is typical in Fibro it can cause are cramps, spasms, and pain.) \nAlso, Fibromyalgia is a neurotransmitter disorder certain foods can trigger similiar symptoms to Fibro. Try eliminating Monsodium Glutamate from your diet. I did and some of my symptoms (chronic headaches and nausea) went away. It is in everything from Doritos to chicken soup. A few key finding's of an FDA study found MSG to cause a "burning sensation in the back of the neck, forearms and chest". Otherwise, learn your limits and pace yourself.\nGood luck!
390310
I don't know your gender or what you do for a living, but you might have a virus or a high level of yeast (which can also happen to men) or symptoms related to flu or chronic fatigue syndrome. Stop eating white flour, sugar, bread and cereals, caffeine. Drink more water, say 6 to 10 glasses a day. Eat more vegetables, especially broccoli and green leafy vegetables in general. Stretch before you start moving in the morning. This is a hard one, but get at least another hour of sleep if you aren't sleeping at least 7 hours a night, and if you aren't doing light to moderate exercise, start it. If you are over-doing it on exercise, cut back and try walking instead. If your problem persists, you may need to see a chiropractor or a doctor. Sometimes back problems affect other parts of your body as well. Another strong possibility is hypothyroidism, where low thyroid function is causing stiffness in your joints, especially the shoulder area. If you are just miserable it's probably time to see a doctor.
280473
signs are-inflammation,swolen parts,tremendous pain,pain on fortnights,but arthritis generally doesn't occur in peoples of ur age,i think ur pain is not from arthritis,still i think u should consult orthopaedic.
705887
I don't know how old she is but, a doctor can give her a blood test to see if she has rheumatism ( swelling from fluids in the joints from cold weather) or arthritis from just the opposite.\n   In the meantime it could be from several other types of problems, the doctor is the one to see here. \n   In the meantime have her wear warm woolen mittens, they're the best for warmth, in the cold weather, anything below fifty degrees.
743267
As an adult, you know that mixing alcohol with any medications is ill-advised. Alcohol can potentiate some medications and the combination can produced bad effects. While I appreciate your discomfort, one needs to be patient. Most common viral infections last only about two weeks at the most, and many begin to loosen their grip in only a few days. Try warm baths both for the heat and also to induce relaxation. Warm drinks such as hot chocolate may help. Drink lots of fluids. Use drugs sparingly or only by your physician's advice. Many people overdose on pain medications and increase their headaches and discomfort. Avoid greasy food as with many illnesses, the oily foods tend to cause a general loss of appetite. Light foods such as ice cream, broths, jello and such are better tolerated. Also do as I do, enjoy your disease!  When you recover, you will learn how great good health is. Why are you beating your head against the wall? Because it feels so good when I stop!!!
345759
I agree with going to see a neurologist. You could be suffering from severe migraines which can cause everything you described. Even more rare is a condition known as "cluster headaches". Cluster headaches can be incapacitating anywhere from 4 hours to 4 months. Check out WebMd.com for more info on them. \n\nDo you where corrective lenses? Could be as simple as eye strain from a bad prescription. Wouldn't hurt to see an eye doctor as well.\n\nAs for your immediate pain, try to sleep on you side or your back with a supportive pillow. Don't use the memory foam type as they do not recover fast enough to support your head, neck and shoulders. Put a pillow between your legs if you sleep on your side. It helps to align the spine and give you more support. Try ice packs and heat packs. Alternate icing for 20 mins and then heat, then ice again. \n\nYou can also try some light isotonic stretching exercises for your arms, back and neck right before bed to help relax the muscles.\n\nI'm sorry you feel rotten. I hope you feel better soon. I also hope that a good doc will take the time to listen to you.