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I was recently diagnosed with EOA. since last Dr visit, 3 weeks ago and since my appt along with the xray, I was referred to a specialis.t I have two knew fingers red swollen, and a bump. When ya think about it, we use our hands for everything, I mean everything, what type of future is there for us with this happening. I do not see to positive of outcomes or medical help for that matter with EOA. I am a CNA for a living, and I am pushing through to just make a living. everyday is a struggle, I hurt to lift, move or roll people, help up from the restroom etc, and lets not get started on if I accidently bump a knuckle.... or my fingers the wrong way. Also any one experience major fatigue along with no appetite with this?
Replies to "I was recently diagnosed with EOA. since last Dr visit, 3 weeks ago and since my..."
Hello, I'm sorry to hear that you are dealing with this. It is hard to find good research on treatment, prognosis, etc because this is a fairly new diagnosis in arthritis. It shares characteristics with both osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, with its own twist of these terribly painful fingers.
You are correct that there is no cure, however, with care and a good doctor pain can be managed and damage can be minimized. I do not have what they currently describe as erosive osteoarthritis, but rather the same thing but in different joints without the sero-confirmation of rheumatoid.
It is managed with NSAIDS, which do more than relieve pain- they also calm the inflammation to reduce damage over time. You may have to try several to find one that helps. If you can tolerate them, do use them.
Tylenol is not an antiinflammatory, but a pain reliever. It does not have the same effect as an NSAID, but it can help with the pain. Hot soaks, or alternate hot/cold therapy can also help. Before I retired, I sometimes soaked my hands and wrists during a break on reality bad days.
If none of these help, you can talk to your rheumatologist about a steroid injection in the worst joint(s) or sometimes they prescribe a course of methotrexate.
As to fatigue, any time you are fighting pain, it is extra taxing - it takes extra energy to get through the day, you may not be sleeping well, and your body is fighting the inflammation. Since you must keep working, be gentle with yourself in other areas, and rest as much as you can.
The same applies to lack of appetite. Be good to yourself. Keep healthy easy food in small amounts, and try to nibble your way through the day. Nuts, cheese chunks, yogurt, fruit, easy meals like healthy choice...
Here is another article you may want to read.
https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/what-is-erosive-osteoarthritis#outlook
What treatment has your doc suggested?
Sue
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Welcome @kgresh11 to Mayo Connect. We’re all patients or caregivers of patients who share information and resources about our health conditions…it sounds like EOA is a very difficult problem to deal with. I’m not really familiar with EOA; i have an autoimmune disease. I’m going to ask @sueinmn if she can join the conversation.
This link may have some good information for you.
https://www.the-rheumatologist.org/article/what-to-do-with-erosive-inflammatory-osteoarthritis/2/?singlepage=1
Have you been referred to a large medical center or a university teaching hospital? You might want to try going to one as they have the most up-to-date information and treatment.
Will you keep e informed of what you learn?