When you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you may wonder which symptoms or new developments warrant a call to your doctor — and which you can safely wait out until your next scheduled appointment. Given the range of aches and pains that can occur, how can you tell which are urgent and which aren’t?It all starts with finding a doctor you’re comfortable with and establishing a good relationship. Not surprisingly, communication is key, says Elyse Rubenstein, MD, a rheumatologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.It’s essential to feel comfortable talking to your doctor about little things as well as big things, from how you’re handling the stresses of life to how you’re feeling in general. You also don’t want to hesitate to alert the doctor to any new symptoms you’re experiencing. When there’s trust between you and your doctor, this should happen smoothly, says Dr. Rubenstein.From there, it’s important to establish what to do when new symptoms crop up.When to Get Immediate Help for RACertain signs and symptoms should spur you to get to the doctor or an emergency room right away, no matter what day or time it is. Do this if you have:Unexpected New Fever, Chills, or Pain “In people with autoimmune conditions like RA, warning signs that would require immediate medical assistance include fever, severe chills, or unexplained pain or swelling in one joint,” says Orrin Troum, MD, a rheumatologist also with Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica.A Severe Drug Reaction If you take medication and develop swelling in your throat, trouble breathing, or intense pain in your chest or abdomen — or sudden pain anywhere else in your body — you need to get help right away. These symptoms could be signs of a serious problem, such as a drug allergy. The same is true for intense or severe vomiting or hives, says Dr. Troum.
