Hi Mary,

I had severe pain on my right middle finger about 4 years ago(same time I discovered I had ET). Hem said its not related. I believe it was the beans I took that week. Cut down on beans and peas and pain went away for good.

I do however have lots on pain at my hip joints and knees. I have been taking yoga for more than 8 years and past 1-2 years, I have problems doing the sitting poses. Bending my knees(when seated)for more than a minute creates alot of pain and the pain intensifies when I stretch my legs. I am not as flexible as before. I think high platelet count somehow causes joint pains. There were days too that I have great difficulty climbing the steps. Rheumatologist did a few tests and said I have early signs of arthrities. I still play tennis and racquetballt 2x a week and work out in the gym if I am not playing any racquet games. Pain comes and go and I dont let it stop me from enjoying what I love to do.

Hem told me a few times that stress affects platelet count and I believe her. My count went up to 900 when I had to teach my 16 year old to drive. Am now between 700-800 and on 1 baby aspirin a day. Had HU for about 4 months in 2004 and when it went down to 600, hem asked if I want to discontinue taking it. Have been without HU since.

Good luck to all. :D