Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Introduce yourself and meet others

Posted by Kanaaz Pereira, Connect Moderator @kanaazpereira, Mar 30, 2017

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?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Autoimmune Diseases Support Group.

mstorch82 | @mstorch82 | Apr 11, 2023

I'm so thankful for this site! I was dx with RA approx. 7 yrs ago I also took methotrexate but have taken myself off all the RA medication due to finding out I have cirrhosis of the liver. My liver specialist cannot confirm or deny that methotrexate was the cause but it does cause say in the pamphlet they give out it can cause liver damage. As of September 2022 I haven't had any medication to help with RA pain, It's been a nightmare especially with weather changes. I just wish the pharmaceutical companies can find something that wouldn't cause so many side effects that people need when were in so much pain.

shawntperryverizonnet | @shawntperryverizonnet | Apr 12, 2023

In reply to @kanaazpereira "Hello @kozlo52 @blindeyepug @barneythe2nd @nanke99 @vickiekay @tbeckys @iman_im @lisa_sj99 @1825 @callyrae @jewel8888 @boomerexpert, I'd like to..." + (show)

I would like to join. I have vocal problems due to RA. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Becky, Volunteer Mentor | @becsbuddy | Apr 12, 2023

In reply to @shawntperryverizonnet "I would like to join. I have vocal problems due to RA. Any information would be..." + (show)

@shawntperryverizonnet Just by posting, you’ve joined! How long have you had RA? Is it pretty well controlled with medication?
Here is an answer to your question from the Arthritis Foundation:
It is possible. Hoarseness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis may be related to inflammation of the cricoarytenoid joints, which sit adjacent to the vocal cords and help open and close them when you speak or breathe. Hoarseness may be accompanied by swallowing issues. However, this condition is quite uncommon nowadays, and the diagnosis is usually limited to people with longstanding disease – it would be extremely rare in someone with a mild form of RA. I would recommend you discuss this with your rheumatologist and an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor. Together they can make a diagnosis and determine any needed treatment.
You might also go to this discussion where other members are discussing the same problem:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/voice-and-vocal-cord-issues/
Can you could tell us a little more about yourself?

shawntperryverizonnet | @shawntperryverizonnet | Apr 12, 2023

In reply to @becsbuddy "@shawntperryverizonnet Just by posting, you’ve joined! How long have you had RA? Is it pretty well..." + (show)

Thanks, I’ll go to that site.

leale | @leale | Apr 22, 2023

I have been taken methotrexate for almost 4 months since my diagnosis in January. Is it true that you won’t feel the effects of this meds until 4 months after taken it. I have had no side affects.

kstar077 | @kstar077 | Apr 28, 2023

I have swollen hands and lumps under skin above wrists. Dr. Has me take 5mg prednezone once a day and 200mg Plaquenil twice a day. The swelling goes down during day but swollen again in am. Mri(s) show tearing where lumps are.

Becky, Volunteer Mentor | @becsbuddy | Apr 28, 2023

In reply to @leale "I have been taken methotrexate for almost 4 months since my diagnosis in January. Is it..." + (show)

@leale You asked about the effects of taking methotrexate. This info is from Medlineplus which is under the National Institutes of Health
“you are taking methotrexate to treat rheumatoid arthritis, it may take 3 to 6 weeks for your symptoms to begin to improve, and 12 weeks or longer for you to feel the full benefit of methotrexate. Continue to take methotrexate even if you feel well. Do not stop taking methotrexate without talking to your doctor.”
Are you taking methotrexate by mouth or as an injection?

kstar077 | @kstar077 | Apr 28, 2023

In reply to @kstar077 "I have swollen hands and lumps under skin above wrists. Dr. Has me take 5mg prednezone..." + (show)

How can I get rid of lumps that are spongy on top of hands?

lemartin417 | @lemartin417 | May 1, 2023

In reply to @kstar077 "How can I get rid of lumps that are spongy on top of hands?" + (show)

What has your doctor said about these lumps? Anything other than the comment about the ripping beneath it? Have you asked him/her about removal or aspiration?