Is my health declining....at 36?

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My husband is self-employed, and when I was working, I always carried the health insurance. When I stopped working to go back to school (and I'm hoping to get into the nursing program this Fall), we had to stop paying for health insurance for him and I, and we just carry a policy for the twins, as it is all we can afford.

About two weeks ago, I woke up in the morning with pain (mild, but there), coupled with very mild stiffness, on the main joint of all of my fingers, not my knuckles.

I had had a nightmare the night before, so I figured that I probably clutched my sheets too tight in my sleep.

The next morning, and each morning after that, the same thing. There is no swelling just pain, but the pain isn't even bad enough to take anything for it. More irritating than anything.

Now, the pain goes away after I'm up for only 30 minutes or so. There is no restriction on movement, etc.

I am so scared these are the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis. I've never had anything like this before.

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We can't give medical advice on this bb. You should see your doctor. Good luck.

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We can't give medical advice on this bb. You should see your doctor. Good luck.

I wasn't asking for medical advice. I posted this in the pre-nursing forum b/c if you develop something like this during nursing school it can have a major impact on your career.

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

I sincerely hope that you do see a physician and soon. You are right that certain diagnoses can affect your nursing career. However, without a diagnosis and ensuing care, this is all speculation. Please take care...traumarus

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

Without offering medical I will say that yes in the mid 30's things can start to become problematic. If there is anything you can sacrifice to afford health insurance I would highly recommend it. One bonus is that, as I understand it, should you be diagnosed with something, knock wood, if you haven't had a lapse in insurance the employer group policies have to take you and start paying right off.

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