Mum diagnosed with RA-any advise please.

[panther50]

Hi My mum has recently been diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis and had a general steroid shot when she saw her rheumatologist for first time few weeks ago. She also has diabetes type 2, is on warfarin and has hypothyroidism. She's been given a choice of DMARDS and was given the Arthritis Research booklet on RA to think about which ones to try. She's had very painful shoulders (I think frozen not RA) and hands, but they're now improving. Would taking no medication be seen as a possible option, if she now finds her symptoms bearable or are there any DMARDs you might recommend? She's in her late 70s and I'm just a bit concerned about interactions with her other meds/conditions and quality of life. I'm seeing her rheumatologist with her this week (I've got lupus so know a little bit about the meds).

[earthwitch]

From the experience of my mother, I'd say she should try treatment and see what difference it makes, and whether she tolerates it OK. My mother had to stop treatment in her early to mid 70's after being really well controlled for many years, and it was quite incredible how quickly she went downhill as she got older and less mobile anyway - to the point where she is now very disabled and dependent on carers. I wouldn't suggest your mother keep taking treatment if it clearly doesn't give strong benefits, or if she doesn't tolerate it well, but I think even at her age it would be worth trying it, as it could hold off disability and give her a much greater quality of life and independence in future years. If she has a choice of meds, then the one with the lowest side effect profile would be the one I'd choose at her age, but I'd get a registered pharmacist to check that there isn't going to be an interaction with any of her other meds first.

[sylvi]

I agree whole heartedly with Earthwitch, seeing your chemist is a spanking good idea as they are the best people to see for advice over side effects. Mine is brilliant as he also tells me what over the counter meds i can take with my blood pressure and ra meds. You are a good daughter taking so much time and care of your mum. It won't be easy with her and RA,but at least she has you for a shoulder to cry on as no doubt she has done for you in the past. I know a good shoulder to cry on is invaluable as the tears i have shed and still do shed. I wish you and your mum the best in the coming weeks and don't forget we are still here should you need us,xxxx