((((Lixy))))
I'm not sure you have Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), given your symptoms...it might be a repetitive stress injury. And the hormonal thing might be a good idea to investigate...
I was diagnosed with RA when I was 19...which is young. Most people do get it in their 50's and 60's -- it's actually an autoimmune issue where your white blood cells attack your joints and degrade the connective tissue. It causes swelling and pain and loss of mobility...and over time can cause joint degeneration if not managed properly. In the long run you may want to go to the Dr and have yourself assessed -- if only because of the possible permanent effects of joint degeneration.
Some home remedies that work for me:
-- Heat. Cold does NOT work for RA, only heat (especially moist heat). Try hot packs (I get the ones you heat in the microwave and put it on the part that hurts), or ThermaCare disposable wraps.
-- Baths. For the same reason above -- heat works.
--Aleve. Aleve is Naproxyn in an OTC dose. Naproxyn is a non-specific anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug that reduces inflammation. Note, however, that it does *not* stop joint degeneration
-- Exercise. Range of motion exercise for the affacted areas is important -- movement hurts in the short run, but in the long run keeps your joints "warm" and flexible and increases your range of motion.
Hope these suggestions help! PM me if you want other ideas or some feedback on meds after you see the Dr. If anything else occurs to me, I'll add it in a later post...