Newbie!

Hi everyone, first time doing this.

I have been on MTX injections, hydroxychloroquine and folic acid for 3 years and was a year being diagnosed. I have learned so much by reading all the posts on this site, and it’s good to feel I’m not alone! I tend not to talk about my RA to anyone any more, you can see their eyes glaze over when they ask how you’re feeling, so I just say I’m fine thanks.

I have also had bowel problems for about a year and had no idea it could have been the MTX, I will mention it next time I see my rheumy. Also has anyone experienced a burning pain in-between the upper shoulder blades? It tends to come on after a morning on the computer at work.

Best wishes to you all.

[allanah]

Hello and im glad you feel safe enough to post and talk on this great site.!! I get shoulder and mid back pain and chest pain due to something called costochondritis ( you can Google it) but basically inflammation between joints and ribs in chest. I'd write it on your list to discuss with your rheumy next visit( unless of course it worsens then see GP)

Lovely to chat xxx

[charisma]

Hi Thepurplegardener

When I was on MTX it totally messed with my bowel too! Even Metoject seized it up but avoided gastric side effects.

I also get pain in the thoracic back area but don’t know why. It is triggered by and posture that involves even slight stoop of shoulders eg ironing.

None of my GP or Rheumatology or Physio professionals tell me why although the RA Specialist Physiotherapist asked how long I was on steroids when she learned of the thoracic back pain.

I had them (pills) for one month longest and only three times before DMARDs.

Welcome to the site!

[Gnarli]

Hello and welcome. I sometimes think I blame everything on the RD (RA), each pain, ache or twinge. However, sometimes it is something that your GP needs to look at. Just to make sure. I had a niggling backache for a while, blamed the RD, and mentioned it to the lovely rheumy. It was straight to xray from clinic followed a few weeks later by a letter from her saying it showed mild lumbar scoliosis. Nothing too awful but good to know. I swear I am truly blessed with our rheumy team, bar one, they are such a nice bunch

[Azzure]

Hello I’m a newbie too with RA!

I so understood what you mean about people unless they can feel what it’s like I just say fine thanks as well!

Sometimes I get impression they don’t believe me because I look ok and that’s my family too!

I’m only taking Sulfasalazine at moment and I don’t want to be on that. Fatigue is awful I work full time and that’s all I have energy for and I cry because I don’t do much else it’s exhausting.

I hope your tummy clears up and you get good advice on here !