Question
I have just been diagnosed with RA with a Rf factor of 256 and nodules and fluid on the lungs. I have had so many pains thru the years and forgot to mention to my doc that my eyes hurt quite bad and quite often. I have thought it have been pre-migraine pain, but the migraine never came. In other words:I suspect RA in my eyes too. I had severe neck pain and lower back problems + hips for years and years. Maybe I had RA all this time. Should I expect a more detailed examination of my body to see how much damage I might aready have suffered? I mentioned chest pain to my MD who diagnosed me and asked if it could be in relation to the fluid and nodules on them. He said it could be, but didn’t seem worried. I have sore throat, and I cough really weird when laying down at night. How aggressive should I be regarding evaluation of my problems? Would it be wise to get a refferal to a specialist?
Answer
You should definitely mention these symptoms to your rheumatologist and have him/her decide on whether you need to see other specialists. RA can involve other organs besides the joints and you need to make sure that inflammation in those organs do not cause damage or problems.
