I was put on plaquenil and mtx, then taken off because my liver wouldn't tolerate it. This went on for some time before I said no more mtx. She was trying least evasive, so I understood her reasoning..so we moved on to Enbrel which made a difference but I couldn't quite get over the hump, so to speak so she switched me to Humira. I have been doing much better. I have had two flares since I have been on it for 7 months. One was my fault I overdid house cleaning, because I could finally clean. So a burst of steroids put me back on track. But the current flare I am in is just because I guess. And cold winter weather of course doesn't help.

The stories I read here broke my heart. I am so sorry for all the pain and suffering you all have had to endure. You are all tough and strong.

I started on MTX and prednisone, when my blood work cleared and I still had pain, she added sulfasalazine after about 2 months. When that didnt work after about a month of side effects, she kept me on MTX and added Enbrel. I didn't go as long as you. I would suggest asking for another treatment plan. 6 months is too long.

My Dr was not aggressive at all after my dx. However, she wanted to see me every three months. After nine months I complained about joint pain in my fingers and wrists. Her response was to send me for an ultrasound because she did not see any inflammation. The report showed I do have inflammation so she prescribed Plaquenil. I felt better in two weeks and have been taking it for 9 mos. However, within the last three weeks my right knee became swollen and I had a difficult time nesting down and getting up. The inflammation is getting better, but I still have discomfort when I sit down and stand up. My hands are also hurting again. I am scheduled to see my Rheumatologist in a month.

My pain started in my neck in Dec. 2013. It got worse and over time effected my shoulders, lower back, hips and knees. I had 2 rounds of PT, saw a chiropractor, had a MRI of my neck, tried acupuncture and all the while I was taking a Rx ibuprofen which did nothing. I was in total pain but without redness or swelling and my hands & feet were not affected. In July 2014 I finally went back to my PCP in worse shape, he ordered blood tests. My inflammation markers were very high so I was referred to a rheumatologist. She diagnosed me with RA in Aug. 2014. It took me 2 years to be pain free and I can thank Humira for that. Prior to Humira I was on Plaquinal for months then MTX pills that were increased over months, then I switched to MTX injection and finally I agreed to start Humira in Aug. 2016. After a few months on Humira I felt great. I am still on 15 mg of MTX injection weekly. It was a long journey.

I was diagnosed with RA 14 years ago at the age of 37. The experience was scary and painful and seemed to take forever before I began to feel well . I am very grateful for the approach my rheumatologist took which was aggressive. I was put onto methatrexate: prednisone: quinine ; an anti inflammatory and folic acid as well as calcium. 14 years later my joints are in a good condition ! I am only taking the methotrexate and folic acid and calcium now - pain killers/anti inflammatory when necessary. I do get pain every now and then but can honestly say it is NOTHING compared to what it was . I could barely walk /hold a toothbrush manage driving etc. So TAKE THE MEDICINE - thats my advice . I was also advised to take an anti nausea tablet in the beginning to counteract the methotrexate. I trusted my doctor and listened to him - while Still battle with flare ups every now and then; overall I am good! and the condition of my joints have not deteriorated . p s a natural remedy for immflamation is tumeric powder . Mix with a little honey and ginger and boiling water - it helps !!!