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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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@mia447 I too have sero-negative RA...became active in 2008...IMHO you are being quite over-medicated...
Hello! I am Jill and I was diagnosed with RA about 2 years ago. I struggle the most with hip pain and fatigue. I also have primary biliary cholangitis. I look forward to being part of this group!
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2 ReactionsWelcome!
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2 ReactionsHello @jill1234, welcome to Connect. Thank you for joining the discussion for rheumatoid arthritis. Also since you also have primary biliary cholangitis, you may want to join in another discussion on Connect here:
> Groups > Autoimmune Diseases > Primary Biliary Cholangitis stage 2
-- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/primary-biliary-cholangitis-stage-2/
Are you able to share a little more about your treatment or what helps you?
One of my big problems is myself and my doctors cannot tell the difference of which one (rheumatoid or psoriatic) arthritis is kicking up. Also must include the vascular problems. Terrible, terrible pain, pain. desparitly holding on. Have stayed away from opiods but think now at age 81 it is time for some relief. Do not know if I should or should not go the way of the opiods. Would really appreciate any advice. I am grateful to have this site available for all of us. peach
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2 Reactions@ ph1 41414 page I have been on opiates Tramadol since I fractured my back in 05 it relieves the pain at I don't have any side effects that I'm aware of I'm down to just one at night if I need it during the day I can take one if necessary you deserve some peace and away from pain I fractured my back in 05 and have been on opiates since then Tramadol shohei go for it
@peach....just an opinion here. Considering the fact that you have held off so long from using opioids...1. Low doses will work for you. 2. Participation in life will increase, due to physical comfort. That participation will increase your activity level, actually improve relationships 3. Decrease depression while increasing inner joy and satisfaction with life. That's the upside.
Downside, you may have to deal with a few of the side effects. Ummm...constipation, which can be controlled with plenty of fluids, fiber, increase in activity. Plenty help available over the counter. Your doctor will go over pros and cons. Personally, I am limited on types of pain relief available to me, due to various issues. Opioids help me, but I always have to keep low dose, to avoid complications from use. If I had a natural alternative close in pain relief, I'd do it. But, as of now, I choose living to my fullest.
6 kids, 14 grandkids. Can't participate in family with the issues I deal with daily, that is, I can't without help. With help, I enjoy my life. Again, this is my opinion. Opioids are not the devil. Abuse is. At 81, can't see you doing that. There is a point where we are allowed, under doctors care, to enjoy some comfort. I am far from pain free at the dose I take, but take the edge off and I can move. Pick up babies. Attend activities. Bake and cook for family celebrations.
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1 ReactionThank you. I am trying to put it all together. peach
Thank you. peach
Thank you peach