My joint pain has gotten worse since three years. What should I do?

Question

Hi doctor,

I suffer from mild joint pain across my body, except my knees, with extreme pain during night time and after waking up. However, I suffer from general stiffness when I wake up in the morning, which lasts roughly an hour or more. I did a few blood tests, and my CRP is always between 7 to 22 mg/dL. It keeps ranging. I tested positive for ANA the first time, and the following two tests came back negative. My cardiolipin AB is always positive. RNP is always positive as well. C4 is high occasionally. Every other test is either negative or undetermined. I consulted with three doctors, and each seemed to have a different opinion. I am not sure what my diagnosis is anymore. I have had joint aches for over three to four years. They recently got much worse. My family history includes patients with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and arthritis.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. You are describing typical inflammatory pain with the setting of positive RNP (anti-ribonucleoprotein)and ANA (antinuclear antibody). While you do not have other systemic symptoms, this suggests early lupus or mixed connective tissue disease. I suggest starting Hydroxychloroquine both as prevention and treatment for your arthritis. It is better to be examined for active swelling and other features.

Thank you.