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Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Introduce yourself and meet others
Let's talk about living with rheumatoid arthritis.
As moderator of the Autoimmune Diseases group, I noticed that several people were talking about RA, but those conversations were scattered throughout the community. I thought I would start this discussion to bring us all together in one place.
Let’s grab a cup of tea, or beverage of choice, and let's chat. Why not start by introducing yourself?
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I definitely am going to try another rheumatologist but I’m not interested in going on biologics at this point I’m sleeping 12-14 hours a day my brain is foggy it’s like nothing I’ve ever felt
For what reason are you eschewing biologics?
Hi, I’m following this and would also be interested in your thoughts on biologics. I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis 2 years ago and was in remission a few months on mesalamine and developed drug induced acute pancreatitis as a result of that. Prior to that, I had been taking Canasa and Uceris (budesonide) - both rectally because there is less systemic absorption. Prior to the UC, I had been in excellent health. My GI doc has been pushing Entyvio and I’m terrified of the side effects of biologics. I have been trying to find and talk to people that have taken them, as these flares are getting worse.... Thanks for any input, and good luck to you!
@dval to whom are you directing the question?
Sorry! I’m asking the person that said she was not interested in biologics. I know they’re used for arthritis and also for ulcerative colitis. I’m trying to get opinions on these drugs from actual patients, as I am terrified of their side effects, and my GI doc has been pushing Entyvio for several months and I keep resisting.... Thank you!! Sorry for the confusion; I’m new to this. 😨
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2 ReactionsHi @dval, I think your question was directed to @margarita514. If you add the member user name with the @ sign in front of it they will receive an email notification of your post.
There is a good Get Started on Connect guide to help with the basics with step by step instructions for the different tasks. The link to the guide is at the bottom of every page on Connect in the left most footer column.
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1 ReactionThank you!!
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1 ReactionIn my personal opinion they are all poison .I’ve never tried any .Ive refused them since the first time it was suggested in 2010 wich puts a strain on every rheumatologist I had since as they see it as me not caring about my health when it’s quite the opposite.I don’t tolerate medications very well and I’m not keen on weakening my immune system or their side effects.
I personally have not taken them . I don’t think they are a good fit for me personally. It is very scary when you get to that point in the road and have to decide I’ve been there many times but always decided against them.Im sure they work well for lots of people.you have to personally weigh the pros and cons . Question for you though have you tried switching your diet I’ve found that cutting out gluten and dairy definitely helps .
@dval you can direct your message by doing what I've done here to reach you. I understand the side-effect fear...I had to better understand medications to move beyond this somewhat irrational fear...it's irrational b/c all medications have side-effects, including whatever you're on now. Biologics' serious side-effects on which you are no doubt concentrating happen in less than 2% of those studied...great odds. Your biggest worry is that they won't work on you, not that you'll be one of the 2%.