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Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Introduce yourself and meet others

Autoimmune Diseases | Last Active: Mar 24 1:26pm | Replies (924)
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@catartist

I have had RA for at least 35 years - mainly prednisone only worked (other meds not so much) Orencia IV once a month, methotrexate for about a year but now effecting Liver enzymes as did 35 yrs ago. At 78 my ligaments, tendons and muscles are tearing and atrophying - due to RA and meds. Always very active - now can hardly walk. Anyone else having this happen?

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Replies to "I have had RA for at least 35 years - mainly prednisone only worked (other meds..."
jerkyjefr | @jerkyjefr | Feb 19 8:25pm

So sorry to hear. My next doc visit afraid same story. Decided 2 retire May and tru to make best of time left. I will say Aleve pm at bedtime helps sleep. Only once a week or twice when I am desperate. Regards. 😑

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iluvstreator | @iluvstreator | Mar 16 2:12pm

I received Orencia IV infusions for 7 years. Started to wane and developed swelling in my hands and joints. By November of 2024, every joint in my body hurt. Rheumatologist put me on Prednisone to relieve swelling and pain for 3 months then started me on Xelljanz XR11 on January 6 of 2025. Because Xeljanz requires blood work every 60 days, I just had my first labs done last Thursday, including a Hepatitis blood draw. Results are back. Labs are terrible and it now shows I am positive for Autoimmune Hepatitis which is a side effect to both Orencia and Xeljanz. My blood sugar levels have climbed( I'm diabetic and check every morning) My liver enzymes and kidney function are bad and my urine test is bad. My rheumatologist took me off the Xeljanz last Thursday, so I am on nothing for rheumatoid except Meloxicam.
I always try to stay active, but winter is my worst time for outdoor exercise, so am unsure how I will feel in a few days. My mental state is crashing and I have never been one to worry when all my labs have been good. I always watch that closely.
I feel so badly for you because I do understand your concern.

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