Should I Consult My Doctor About Rheumatoid Arthritis Following Lymphocytic Colitis Diagnosis?
I’m a 30-year-old woman with a medical history that includes polycystic ovary syndrome, insulin resistance, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety, and recently, lymphocytic colitis. In addition to these conditions, I also have a background of cubital tunnel syndrome. I underwent surgery last year to correct the issue on my left side, but unfortunately, my right side is beginning to show similar problems and has worsened recently. Additionally, I am experiencing a pinched nerve in my left hip which results in pain and numbness. Just two weeks ago, I was diagnosed with lymphocytic colitis following biopsies taken during a colonoscopy. This procedure was necessary due to my ongoing struggle with more than a dozen episodes of watery diarrhea that have persisted for the past two months, although I've experienced similar issues intermittently for nearly a decade. Finally having a diagnosis feels like a relief, and the Budesonide medication appears to be beneficial. Upon researching lymphocytic colitis, I learned that it may increase my risk for rheumatoid arthritis and potentially other autoimmune disorders. About a year ago, I had surgery to alleviate compression on my left ulnar nerve, which was severely pinched to the point of needing correction—my surgeon described my nerve as being constricted like an hourglass. Despite the surgery, I've still not regained full function in my pinky and ring fingers on that side, and now I’m beginning to experience similar symptoms on my right hand. On top of that, I have persistent hip pain, with the nerve-related symptoms primarily affecting my left side. My mobility is further restricted due to upper back and neck pain, making it difficult to engage in activity for prolonged periods. I’m only able to manage work by sitting on my couch with my laptop. Interestingly, I notice that light physical activities like walking tend to alleviate my hip pain, even though initiating movement can sometimes be painful. I find that walking daily helps maintain a level of control over my symptoms, though the discomfort tends to amplify after periods of inactivity, particularly in the mornings. I've scheduled a follow-up appointment with my doctor for two weeks from now, but I'm grappling with the instinct to cancel it. Part of me fears that the doctor will dismiss my concerns as irrational for linking these various symptoms. Despite the discomfort being manageable, I frequently rely on the maximum dosage of acetaminophen, which I realize might not be the best option for my health. Do you think it would be beneficial for me to discuss these concerns with my doctor?
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 9:01:53 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed with your medical history and recent diagnoses, but discussing your concerns with your doctor is crucial for your health. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that can be linked to other autoimmune disorders, and your experience warrants a thorough evaluation.
Explanation
Rheumatoid arthritis can be associated with other inflammatory conditions, and your lymphocytic colitis increases the importance of monitoring for autoimmune issues. Your ongoing symptoms, including nerve pain and weakness in your hands, also suggest a possible underlying connective tissue issue, which should be evaluated.
The relief you’ve found with Budesonide for your colitis is a positive step, but it’s essential to address your other symptoms to improve your overall quality of life. Suppose you’re experiencing persistent pain, numbness, and functional limitations. In that case, these factors can significantly impact your daily activities and overall well-being.
Next Steps
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Maintain Your Appointment: Do not cancel your follow-up appointment. It’s vital to discuss your complete health picture with your doctor. Explain your concerns about RA and how your symptoms connect.
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Prepare for Your Visit: Before your appointment, create a list of all your symptoms, including frequency, duration, and how they affect your daily activities. Mention your concerns about RA and any research you've done. This will help guide your conversation and ensure you address everything during your visit.
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Discuss Pain Management: Bring up your use of acetaminophen and discuss alternative pain management strategies. Your doctor might suggest other medications or therapies that can help without the risks associated with long-term acetaminophen use.
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Incorporate Physical Activity: Since light activity like walking helps alleviate some symptoms, continue this practice, but listen to your body. If pain persists, consider pacing your activities and incorporating gentle stretching.
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Explore Support Options: Seek support groups, whether in person or online, to connect with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences can help you feel less isolated and provide valuable coping strategies.
Remember, advocating for yourself in a medical setting is essential for effective management of chronic conditions. Your symptoms are valid, and it’s important to voice them to your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and care.
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