Question
I have been experiencing symptoms of "reactive arthritis" for a little over 5 years. I have been on many anti-inflammatory(React to most with little or no relief). Was on Plaquenil for about 6 months- affected my eyes- was taken off. I have recently been swelling badly in my ankles and feet especially when I walk more.  Is there any relief for the pain and swelling?  I am very frustrated and have stopped going to my rhuematologist as he"has nothing for me". I thought reactive arthritis was a temporary thing- not more than five years.

Answer
I'm sorry I don't have any experience with your condition, but as a fellow autoimmune and chronic disease patient, I urge you to find a specialist in your condition who can assess it thoroughly and work with you to find the relief you need.  I got involved in a supporting foundation for my disease and found a specialist that way.  I've also found that rheumatologists more experienced with rare diseases are likely to be found in internal medicine or rheumatology departments at major universities.

I hope this helps.