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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How Do You Tell If Your Treatment Is Working?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Spruce Head, ME

So I'm interested in how people consider their treatment is working. In addition to RA, I have fibromyalgia and a seriously bad back so I am on lots of pain meds to handle the pain from these issues. But if I forget to change my pain patch, I often find lots of pain in the joints in my hands. This leads me to believe that my pain meds are covering up RA pain which means I am undertreated.

January 21, 2019
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Answer Summary

Members connected over the challenge of knowing whether RA treatments are working, especially when pain medications or overlapping conditions... Read more

Members connected over the challenge of knowing whether RA treatments are working, especially when pain medications or overlapping conditions like fibromyalgia make it difficult to distinguish the source of pain. Several members shared their experiences with medication trials, including switches from methotrexate to injections, combinations like Orencia and Arava, and breakthrough success with Xeljanz, while others described persistent flares, fatigue, and frustration with doctors who seem dismissive or unwilling to adjust treatment plans. A recurring theme was the importance of finding a compassionate, proactive doctor willing to keep trying new options, managing expectations around the unpredictable nature of RA, and being kind to yourself on both good days and bad.

A myRAteam Member

I was originally diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, but then after my results came back was to I was in advanced stages of RA. I'm in the process of looking for another Dr now because it seems like my Dr just doesn't care anymore. When I tell her the pain I feel and show her pics of my swelling, and tell her the medication she had me on (celebrex) is not working, she just says there is nothing more that she can do for me. I'm tired of hurting all the time and not being able to walk or do anything with my hands!

January 24, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Welcome, I try not to use any pain meds I took myself off hydrocodone. I use ibuprofen and voltaren gel. Orencia and Tylenol pm at night. My reason is later on when I get worse I may need it more then. Then maybe I might need something else for pain.

January 21, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Sometimes you need to try several doctors before you find the one that works best for you.

January 25, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Thank you!

January 25, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Find a new doctor. I have had good doctors so find one who understands. I had a bad doctor once and had to change. There are so many options. You have to keep trying until you find one that helps.

January 24, 2019

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