My Rheumatologist has put me on MTX, plaquenil, and folic acid. I have days that I'm extremely stiff and hurt. other days I'm ok. I am very active with my kids, 1 still at home, and I have 3 grands I keep up with. Is this something I will have for the rest of my life?
You need to know and remember that everyone is different and we all react differently to the disease and the meds. When were you diagnosed and when did you start the meds? Have you noticed a change in your symptoms?
You can read through all of the posts and find that some of us have different symptoms from you or others, some have similar symptoms. We also will react differently to the meds. I cannot take MTX. It made me worse. So did Enbrel. Others have had great success with these meds. I also had no response to Orencia or Xeljanz. But that's me.
I have been on pred for at least 30 years. I know it's helping because every time we try to wean me off, I go into a horrible flare.
Since this is new to you, I'd recommend keeping a diary of your symptoms and whne they occur - late in the day, early in the day, after working or after any kind of increased activity... It will help you get a handle on what is happening and give some direction on what to avoid or back off of. It can help you be more aware of all that is going on and help you manage the RA better. This is all so new for you and there's a lot to learn - about the RA and how it affects you.
Keep us posted and GO CUBS!!!!!
I will say everyone is different. When you are on the right medications for your body, eating well and taking care of yourself, you can and will have long times without pain. It is possible. Meds take a while to get into your system, so in the beginning, it sucks. Stay strong, active and take care of you!!
Unfortunately yes it doesn't go away but if it's caught in time it can get under control if you have the right meds and change your eating habits. I know I don't know you yet but there's a good book out there called the whole 30 it starts with food. It explains about different foods and what they do to our bodies. I've changed a lot of what I eat and drink do to what I've learned and it's working for the most part and I'm losing weight at the same time. Take care
There is no cure for RA, but there is hope. There are different levels of severity, with treatment some people can go into remission.
Hi,
I have plunged deep into researching all things about autoimmune disease, being recently diagnosed as well. I found a lot of ways that you can help ease your symptoms in conjunction with your meds. First things are, adjust your diet, take action to reduce stress, avoid toxic substances. There are all sorts of diets out there, but for me, the Mediterranean diet is the best. I am currently reading "The Keystone Approach ". The author provides all of the scientific info to help you to understand how foods affect your body and hence your immune system. We have to do our own homework to find helpful ways to get better. Doctors don't have the time to explain everything.
Hope this helps, good luck.