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Help with flair and limited treatment options

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diane_83862
diane_83862

I have rheumatoid arthritis and until recently my symptoms have been well controlled on hydroxichloriquine and methotrexate enough to live my life reasonably fully. However in December I became unwell and after lots of tests liver scans biopsies etc I was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver methotrexate induced (ido not drink and never have) the methotrexate was stopped  and it was decided that my treatment options are very limited as all drugs are processed via the liver. I am now enduring flair after flair reduced to walking with a stick and have limited use of my hands because of pain and swelling. I am in desperate need of help if any one can advise.  As I don’t know how I can go on with this  constant pain.  I’m am trying to hold down a job and I am carer for my mum who has Dementia any help would be appreciated 

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • gaz1234
    gaz1234 diane_83862

    Posted

    It must be really difficult without the meds you were on. Its really bad luck that your body is rejecting them for one reason or another. Are you taking painkillers or do you struggle with them also?
  • diane77471
    diane77471 diane_83862

    Posted

    Dear Diane, I am so sorry for all you are going through. I am well aware of the horrible pain and fatigue from RA. The meds are a godsend. Are steroids out of the question also? I remember finding some relief with a hottub. I even hobbled in to a gym and asked for a free trial so I could sit in hottub. I saw they sell on Internet portable hottub inexpensive. Some people swear by tumeric. I hope you find relief. God bless.
  • timothy11402
    timothy11402 diane_83862

    Posted

    I had a friend who took MTX and hydroxychloroquine, just as I do. One day, while I was at his house, his RA doc called him to tell him to stop MTX. Instead, he put him on sulfasalazine which seemed to work......and then five years later on a biologic. So there are alternatives. You should have a frank talk with your rheumy to see what your options are. I do not believe you have to needlessly suffer.  Good luck.\

    Tim

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