Having Muscle, Joint Pain, Anxiety And Fatigue. Has Three Bulging Disc In Back. Guide
Thanks for asking.
I think it is quite appropriate for you to look for a diagnosis, four years of continued pain in the multiple joints of the body definitely demands investigations.
There are few possibilities, rheumatoid arthritis is one of them, along with other connective tissue disorders .
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that results in a chronic, systemic inflammatory disorder that may affect many tissues and organs, but principally attacks flexible (synovial) joints. It can be a disabling and painful condition, which can lead to substantial loss of functioning and mobility if not adequately treated.
To get to the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, you need to undergo some special investigations like RA factor, ESR, C reactive proteins, and now a days more specific blood marker which test for the presence of the anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) or anti-CCP has been used.
I think the time has come to consult a Rheumatologist. Just keeping on taking pain killers is not going to stop the progression of the disease, if it is rheumatoid arthritis.
I hope I have answered your query, I am available for follow up questions if needed.
Thanks.