[23F] Experiencing chronic joint pain and neck pain with associated rashes

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues. It is often associated with IBS and can cause aching and dull pain in multiple joints.

  • Treatment typically includes a combination of medications, exercise, stress-reduction measures, and dietary changes.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints, including those in the hands and feet. It is more common in women and often starts in middle age, but can also start earlier.

  • Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage, and often involves medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.

• Psoriatic Arthritis: This is a form of arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis, a condition that features red patches of skin topped with silvery scales. It can cause joint pain and stiffness, and skin rashes.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to control inflammation and prevent joint damage.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to manage your symptoms:

1. Regular exercise: Physical activity can help to reduce joint pain and stiffness. Low-impact exercises like swimming or water aerobics might be beneficial.
2. Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat to stiff joints and cold to painful joints can help to reduce symptoms.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers: You mentioned that ibuprofen and acetaminophen help to relieve your pain. Continue to use these as needed, but make sure not to exceed the recommended dosage.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your joint pain is accompanied by redness, swelling, or warmth around the joint
• If you have a fever
• If your joint pain is severe or lasts for more than a few days

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.