Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Hi,

I'm new to the boards. I've been treated for RA for about 7 years now.

Just wanted to say hi.

I'm hear to learn and help where I can.

hi, and welcome.

I'm 35yrs old and diagnosed with RA three months ago.. How long will I live with this pain,fatigue ... I know you said your diagnoses was 7yrs. ago but what works for you best besides your meds..

Well, I have good days and bad days. I've been taking plaqenil, arava, and methrotrxate for 7 years.

I've just been told by my doctor to stop the methotrxate. (please forgive my spelling : / )

The methotexate is starting to affect my liver. Which is not good.

I find going to the gym and doing more weight resistance helps alot. Also laying down for about a half hour to an hour resting in the afternoon helps alot.

When that doesnt do it I take ibuprofen.

If the pain is to the point of having a hard time walking etc. I take propoxyphene, But this med is NOT good, only for emergency relief.

I dont eat alota meat either. Maybe 2 times a week. Not sure if that helps or not. But I heard it did.

Thank you so much for your information.. It helps me in more ways than you can understand.. I've also heard about taking the meat out of my meals.. Have you heard of biologic meds.. My doc wants to treat me with these meds.. I guess I will find out more on thursday at my appointment.. thank you for your help

No I havent, please let me know what you find out about them..

[b]Hi msdiana, Welcome aboard. I know that you'll love it here as much as I do. There is so much support, compassion & understanding here. I mean this with all my heart. This is, by far, the best website that I've found on the internet. For awhile there, I was very discouraged by the internet, because, there are a lot of people out there who are definitely NOT nice. It is so nice to have a place where we can all come together for support & understanding. This is truly a safe place too, & I love it even more for that reason.

God Bless,

booklover

Welcome!

Many hear in the board have had experiences with injectables. For what i've seen in others they usually help.

I am still looking for a dr who will treat mine. My new one told me they only deal with neck and spine spasms. I have those but I have ra in my fingers.alsolol Im begining to wonder if there is a good rheumatologist in northern Va.

I am from NOVA...I had trouble finding a good Rheumy there too. I finally found one down in Fredericksburg. If you would like her info let me know.