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I have recently been diagnosed with AS

Posted , 4 users are following.

MooBarr
MooBarr

44 year old woman with AS is sacroiliac joint, knees & feet. Rhumatologist has recommended I use methotrexate. Seems so extreme to use this drug. Do I have other options before using this drug...

0 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • andrew03486
    andrew03486 MooBarr

    Posted

    Hi MooBarr,

    Seems like there are plenty of options including changing what you eat, naturopathic therapies, and other. These other options may not provide as effective relief in the short-term by they may prove to be more theraputic in the long-term. Then again diet changes might work very effectively in a short-period of time. Changing how you eat can be a real challenge for some due to the addictiveness of much the foods most of us eat but I myself notice a strong correlation between eating well and feeling significantly better both physically and emotionally.

    Best wishes where ever you focus your efforts to heal.

  • jane11951
    jane11951 MooBarr

    Posted

    MooBarr, I've had AS for 30 years and have been on different NSAID's in that time - I'm currently on etorocoxib, which is very effective but I can't take it every day or I get a Crohns flare up! Prescribing methotrexate as your first drug option does seem a bit sledgehammer and nut - it has some quite nasty side effects. Is there a reason why you can't be put on NSAID's? Btw, the majority of my AS flares are also in my peripheral joints, ankles, neck, etc
  • rose0000
    rose0000 MooBarr

    Posted

    I would think anti inflamtories would be the first choice for someone whom has just been diagnosed.

    Exercise, physio sessions, diet, stretches, massage all of these things can really help in the early days. The hot patches are brilliant for a flare. I think you need to consider trying other things first, if I was you, I would be researching carefully before making any decisions.

    How bad is your AS? Are you someone who flares but is well in between? Or do you feel unwell constantly?

    I managed for years without any medication but am trying biologics next as my AS is very advanced now.

    • MooBarr
      MooBarr rose0000

      Posted

      Hi Rose, I have constant pain mainly in my feet & swelling in one knee. I also have x-ray changes in my right hip which was dibilitating but has settled down.

      Started on Mobic, now Predisilone & the next step is Methotrexate.

      I am starting Pilaties again & walking (with pain) and am trying pretty hard to cut out all Gluten & Dairy in my diet including any refined foods.

      Sticking to Fish, Chicken & maybe 1 or 2 servings of red meat per week.

      My concern is that if I don't go on the Methotrexate, will my condition worsen. Im only 44 & althogh just diagnosed have proably had this for some time.

      I appreciate everyones feedback. Thank you

    • rose0000
      rose0000 MooBarr

      Posted

      MooBarr, I would be tempted to get a second opinion if I were you. I strongly believe in second opinions full stop for any serious medical issues. Also do you have an AS specialist? It is a good idea to get a consultant whom knows the condition well and treats lots of other patients in a similar position. 

      I don't think your condition will worsen as such without methodtrexate, the best thing in my experience to slow AS is exercise and keep supple and flexible. The side effects need to be weighed up with how much pain relief they offer, if the pain isn't awful and you can manage, I would consider doing so.

      I would start with a second opinion, weigh up what can be gained on methotrexate and what could be an alternative with your doctor. 

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