[42F] With chronic sharp and aching pain in arms and legs

What might be happening

It is likely that your symptoms are related to multiple issues, including existing diagnoses. If you have more questions, we can continue chatting.

Causes of your sharp and aching pain in your arms and legs, especially with walking, and stiffness in your feet, knees, hips, elbows, and shoulders:

• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): This condition occurs when the arteries that supply blood to your limbs become narrowed or blocked. It can cause pain, especially when walking, and may be associated with numbness and tingling. PAD is more common in people with a family history of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. It can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joints. Given your family history of polymyalgia rheumatica and hypothyroidism, RA could be a possibility.
• Fibromyalgia: This condition is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It can also cause stiffness and numbness or tingling in the limbs.

What you can do

Sharp and aching pain in arms and legs, and stiffness:

• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD):

  • See a doctor: It's important to get a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend tests such as an ankle-brachial index (ABI) or ultrasound to check blood flow in your limbs.
  • Lifestyle changes: Quit smoking if you do, maintain a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Walking can help improve symptoms, but start slowly and gradually increase your activity level.
  • Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage symptoms and improve blood flow.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):

  • See a rheumatologist: A specialist can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Blood tests and imaging studies may be needed.
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
  • Physical therapy: Exercises to improve joint flexibility and strength can be beneficial.

• Fibromyalgia:

  • Consult a doctor: A healthcare provider can help diagnose and manage fibromyalgia. There is no specific test for fibromyalgia, so diagnosis is based on symptoms and ruling out other conditions.
  • Medications: Pain relievers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs may help manage symptoms.
  • Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, stress management techniques, and good sleep hygiene can help alleviate symptoms.

General tips:

• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol can help manage pain. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage.
• Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected areas can help reduce pain and stiffness.
• Stay active: Gentle exercises like stretching, yoga, or swimming can help maintain joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.
• Track your symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.

What you should look out for

Given the severity of your symptoms and the possibility of serious underlying conditions, you should seek medical care as soon as you can. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Sudden worsening of pain or stiffness
• New or worsening swelling, redness, or warmth in your joints
• Development of new symptoms such as fever, unexplained weight loss, or severe fatigue
• Numbness or tingling that becomes constant or severe

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.