Kate: We have got to love to see that T1 and RA are being connected. I know that was the first quesiton I had when Dx’d with RA back in 2000. I think we are seeing some answers these days.
Does anyone know if RA always develops suddenly? Or can it develop slowly over time?
I have long-term T1 and was diagnosed with arthritis in my big toes many years ago. I’ve since developed lots of other aches and pains, more than I think is normal for someone in their 30s, but nothing hugely dramatic unless my feet and ankles start hurting while walking, then others really notice. Recently I developed Raynaud’s syndrome and my doctor did some bloodwork for autoimmune conditions since Raynaud’s can be a symptom of some autoimmune diseases. I already have a couple autoimmune diseases, so am at higher risk of developing more.
I’m a bit freaked out because my rheumatoid factor came back quite high. I have a family history of RA, but in my family member’s case that I know of, it came on very suddenly. I haven’t followed up with my GP yet, so am not sure if he’s concerned nor what his suggested next steps (if any) might be. The good news is that other antibodies my doctor tested for and CRP were normal.
Just curious about others’ experiences.
Jen, I do understand being freaked out. However, you should knwo that if you do have RA, or AS or any of the 100 plus Rheumatic diseases there are safe and effective treatments.
Generally speaking RA is bilateral joint disease. That means it tends to impact the same joint on both sides of the body. One of the classic symptoms for instance is pain in the fingers, on both sides of the body. It can of course impact toe joints usually on both sides of the body.
The only person who can effectively diagnose RA is a rheumatologist. If your Rheumatoid Factor is high I suggest you get a referral to a rheumatologist. I suggest you do it sooner than later because in many places it may be 6 month wait to see a rheumatologist.
It is really the only way to know what the diagnosis will be. If you do have an issue, the doctor can start immediate treatment to stem the tide of the disease. Thus saving joints, pain and deformity.
Start the process to see a Rheumatologist, that is the only thing that will give you comfort that you are getting the right treatment or not. i wish you the very best.
Yes indeed Rick. I’m noticing now that when I ‘ache’ sometimes it may not be Uncle Arthur (RA) but instead Cousin D (Diabetes). When I check my BG it will be elevated and I’ve learned to connect the dots when I’m feeling ‘achy’, ‘crappy’, and ‘discombobulated’ it’s Cousin D.
Uncle Arthur, just makes me feel like I have the flu or like I’ve been run over by an 18-wheeler. LOL! 
My fibromyalgia (who is still nameless) makes my muscle feel sore like I’ve been rearranging all the furniture in my house; and, then put it back in place. 
But it has taken quite a while to figure this out. I had figure out the RA & Fibro, but the diabetes threw me for a loop because I didn’t have a pattern or MO to track. Lots of detective work with all stuff; thankfully, you all are great help. I appreciate you greatly.