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Psoriatic Arthritis: How do you manage PA and flares?
I am a 74 year old female who has had psoriasis for over 40 years. The psoriasis was present on my scalp and ears in flares from time to time. I never experienced joint swelling and joint pain until recently. About one month ago I experienced an abrupt onset of severe joint swelling in my hands wrists, feet, and neck with severe pain. At first I suspected that it might have been related to my oncology medication, Arimedex that I began taking approximately 4 months before my sudden joint problems began. Testing ruled out Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus. My oncologist did not think that the joint issues could be related to the Arimedex, however, he recommended that I suspend taking the cancer medication for 4 weeks while I was given oral Prednisone for 23 days (referred to as Pulse and taper). I am on day 22 of the Prednisone and the joint swelling and pain is no longer present. My oncologist wants me to resume the Arimedex, however, I am afraid that the severe joint pain will return. I am hopeful that additional diagnostic testing will determine the underlying cause of my joint swelling. If anyone reading this has had similar problems or any information related to my situation I would be interested in your comments. Thank you.
lemdjm
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Thank you Peach
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3 ReactionsThank you Peach
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2 Reactions@peach414144 -- YOU ARE A REAL PEACH! I love your value add when you post. I especially like how you post from the heart a lot and are so encouraging to new members here on Connect (old ones like me too!). I sometimes use all caps for emphasis or in titles but I try not to write everything in caps mostly because I think it's a little harder to read since most writing is lower case with the first letter in caps and I think we are used to it. So, YES you are a valuable and important part of Connect. We all are. Every member adds value and brings a unique experience. Thank you for being here on Connect.
John
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3 ReactionsThank you John and everyone.
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1 Reaction@peach414144 I certainly an not offended with caps I enjoy hearing from you
I have Psoriatic Arthritis and am having a problem getting the correct meds for this. I have tried Methotrexate, caused hail loss,also side effects are terrible! Now trying Leflunomide, same thing terrible side effects. Isn’t there simpler meds for this?
@10071923 I just saw an add about Enbrel for Psoriatic arthritis have you tried this?
Hi Lioness, No I have not. I took Methotrexate for about two years, it helped a lot for me, only it made my hair start thinning. I stopped taking this, because I thought I was smarter than my doctor. The only thing that helped my itchy scalp was two or three drops of tea tree oil (really strong smell) in Any shampoo. Needless to say I went back to the doctors and she put me on Leflunomide (generic) I just started this. I have drug insurance. Take my advice Costco has cheap prices, cheaper than Walmart! Sandra
@sandra I hope this helps if not ask the Dr about Enbrel its been on the market 15+ years.
My psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis disappeared almost completely when I became gluten free. Try it for a month or two. If it's going to work you should see some results by then and it can't hurt to be gluten free. Love & blessings.