Length of diagnosis and symptoms.

[Northernlassie]

Hi Everyone,I'm Sue and was diagnosed with seronegative RA approx 15 years ago. I've chugged along on methotrexate and trying to keep active to help with stiffness and pain. Recently Iv found my symptoms increasing at night and even shorter walks are causing joint pain rather than easing it. I can't take oral ibuprofen so it's just paracetamol or co-codamol and ibuprofen gel.

My question is what have others found over timescales and any tips? Do I now need an increase in medication or something else?

Thanks

😊

[HeadInASpin]

I’ve not had RA as long as you have but I’d say it’s time for a review with your rheumatology team, as they will be able to say if you need a drug change/tweak. I’d contact them sooner rather than later as some areas have a long wait for appointments. Good luck x

[KittyJ]

As you’ve had RA a while you’ll know if it’s a flare or not but also do you have OA as that can cause pain too. Either way I’d call your rheumy so you can get checked out to find the cause.

[oldtimer2]

Contact the rheumy team. Keep a record. Take a photo if any redness or swelling . Sounds as if you might need an increase or change of medication.

And look at the treatment pages on the NRAS website so that you are prepared for any discussion as to wh tsteps are next.

[janmary]

I was on MX for 10+ years - it worked fairly well but the effectiveness decreased and the side effects increased over time. It seems that RA finds its sneaky way round all these medications over time! Like others say push for a review - and make sure your new symptoms are recorded -

[ruth_p]

It definitely sounds like you need an additional meditation added in. Unfortunately, sometimes these drugs become less effective over time. Contact your rheumatologist and ask for an appointment.

[Smiler7]

Definitely ring rheumo team. Know lots on Metho but shot my liver thru the roof now on two weekly injections of Hyrimoz a biologic, seems to be stabilising me but isn’t it all a swine ? ! Take care xx

[Sohmui]

I have been on MTX for 10+ years. It has worked well. However, I paused it for one month (too long) because of a chest infection and after resuming 4 months ago, I am left with some inflammation in the hands. Interesting that others have said MTX may become less effective after some years. I agree with those who recommend contacting your consultant for a medicine review. My yearly appointment is in a couple of months so I will wait until then.

[Northernlassie in reply to Sohmui]

Thanks Sohmui, I also stopped methotrexate recently for a fractured ankle then chest infection and tummy bug so similar to yourself. My Rhumatology appointment is soon also so I shall see what they say. I suppose we are all different but as it's a progressive disease I thought it may be expected given my 15 year diagnosis.

[Sohmui in reply to Northernlassie]

Good luck, Northernlassie. Hope they can sort it out for you. I am also around 15 years since diagnosis and what you say about progression makes good sense.

[bpeal1]

Everyone’s journey is so different what one person experiences won’t be the same as next but it does sounds like a medication review with your rheumatology team would be sensible.