Swollen joints a side effect? wedding ring doesn't fit

SmartassSmurf
SmartassSmurf Member Posts: 157
edited September 2014 in Chemotherapy - Before, During, and After

I quit wearing my wedding ring during chemo because I was at home all the time. Now I am 3 months PFC & my wedding ring no longer fits over my knuckle. No real change in weight and I do not have a swelling of my hands or feet. I also get stiff and sore if I do not move around. I look like an old lady when I get up from sleeping or sitting on the couch. Erg, anyone else.

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Comments

  • islandmom
    islandmom Member Posts: 191
    edited September 2014

    Tell your oncologist and have your blood tested .  You may have Rheumatoid Arthritis.  I have been recently diagnosed, which was a surprise to me because other than some stiffness I did not have other symptoms.  I blamed the Tamoxifen for the stiffness, so I just ignored it for the most part.  My blood levels were low, so my oncologist tested my blood for every disease it seems.  The ANA test came positive.

    I was referred to a rheumatologist, who did more testing and diagnosed me.  Most of the joint damage happens in the first years, which is why is very important to start treatment early. 

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  • Bow1965
    Bow1965 Member Posts: 127
    edited September 2014

    If you had surgery/nodes removed you may want to check for lymphedema - that's one symptom my therapist told me to watch for & the swelling is very subtle! For sure check with someone.

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  • SmartassSmurf
    SmartassSmurf Member Posts: 157
    edited September 2014

    Thank you for the info. I will check in with my MO when I see her in November. With the total body stiffness, I suppose arthritis is possible. 

    I did have 2 nodes removed, but they were on the right side & this is limited to my left hand, although I do not wear rings on my right hand so I am not sure about those joints.

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