Question for the women...

[Guest guest]

First of all, I'll apologize in advance to the men on this board for

taking the discussion in such a personal direction...

I would love to know if any of the females have noticed an increase

in pain, swelling, or stiffness immediately before thier monthly

cycles? Also, I have read in the literature about how some women

report thier symptoms eased when they were pregnant...has anyone

noticed a difference when on the Pill (which simulates pregnancy)?

I am asking because I have noticed the first and am thinking I may

just be wierd. My dr. didn't seem impressed when I mentioned it to

her. Also, I am taking plaquenil and clinoril (been taking them

since the end of July) and WAS on the Pill. Stopped taking the Pill

at the end of August and the month of September has been hellacious,

despite my continuing to take the plaquienil and clinoril. I am

having to take Tylenol for arthritis mid-day nearly every day in

order to be able to continue to work.

I still do not have an official diagnosis (other than 'joint pain')

and do not like the fact that I may now be written off as 'female

problems'. It seemed like the meds were helping in August, next to

no pain until PMS struck. September on, I have been in pain every

day. Any suggestions? I'm already going to seek another dr for a

second opinion.

Thanks!

Millie

(Sorry so long-winded but this has been bugging me for days...)