At last I can logon again.

[Craw]

Hi everyone

I have not been able to logon to this site for ages, first problems with my browser then my account.

I have been able to read some posts but some were hidden so I have missed a lot that has been going on.

So yipee I am back and I have missed this site a lot.

Update about myself - I have RA diagnosed over 5 years ago and up until this year was on MTX, Sulpha and Hydroxy.

Came off the MTX due to chest problems in January, then back on the MTX in april but had to stop it again in July as the chest problems came back.

Currently I am only taking the Sulpha 6 a day and Hydroxy 2 a day.

I saw the Rheumy in July and they said that I should consider starting Lef but so far I have been doing ok so I will wait and see. I can ring the Rhuemy any time and she will arrange the Lef for me.

Saw the chest doc again this month and still have not got a firm answer to what is wrong with my lungs but he agreed that I should stay off the MTX.

My lastest lung function test showed no improvement but also has not got any worse.

Chest doc has told me to ring his secretary as soon as my chest gets bad as he want to see me when I am actually having the problems.

I am still taking the inhalers.

I am glad to say that I am doing okay just now but I was given a steroid injection last month so I think that is why I am doing so well.

Anyway good to be back

Mary x

[Hidden]

Hi Craw, nice to have you back with us.

I too am existing on Sulfa and Hydroxy ( same doses as you), after being taken off MTX.

I find that my RA is now under some sort of control, although I still have to take Naproxen twice a day. I've got a Rheumy appointment next month who I haven't seen for a year, so will be interested in his opinion.

All the best

Carolyn

[Craw in reply to Hidden]

Hi Carolyn

Thanks for the reply and glad to be back.

I was worried about being taken off the MTX but at the same time I do not miss the horrible side effects you get from taking it.

Like yourself I am doing okay just now and hope it continues.

Hope you appointment next month goes okay.

Mary

[Hidden]

Hi Mary, I've not been logging much either as the new site just seemed too much effort for a while. Sorry to hear you've been having so many problems with your chest but it sounds promising that it's not getting any worse. I had asthma from the age of 20 but have not needed inhalers for the past 2yrs as my condition has improved. I don't know if it's down to weightloss and getting fitter or the mtx but it shows that things can improve with time and the right treatment.

Paula x

[Craw in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Paula

I have never had any chest problems before so it was quite a shock when this all started. It always starts off with a bad cold then like flu systems.

The inhalers have helped so I am hoping it all settles down.

Since I have been off the MTX I have lost a few kilos but I still have a few to lose so hopefully that will help me as well.

Mary

[allanah]

Hiya, I have just had my asthma check today and got my inhalers doubled , then had diabetic check which is better but then they said I need a bone scan and maybe statins!! Will they never give up!lol! Glad to see you back on, the more u use it , it gets slightly easier!! Hugs Axx

[Craw in reply to allanah]

Hi Allanah

I know I think the same what more do I need to put up with. I also have problems with my parathyroids and have a clinic appointment today but hopefully it will stay as it has been and they are just monitoring it.

Good luck with the bone scan.

Mary x