[Towanda]

Three days ago my rheumatologist finally (after 9 months of tests and waiting) diagnosed me with RA. So far I have stiffness, some contracture and tenderness in the last three fingers of both hands, and knee pain in my right leg. Also bursitis of both shoulders. Doc says RA has eroded the bones in the joints in my fingers, and attacked the soft tissues of fingers, hands and wrists. He has started me on Methotrexate 10mg 1 x /week for 2 weeks then 15 mg 1xx/week for 2 weeks then back to see him. All blood work was normal; RA factor so far is negative; lungs are ok. He added 1mg folic acid; I added glucosamin/chondroitin and fish oil on my own. I plan to join a gym and to lose some weight (I admit to being sedentary and overweight both of which from my reading seem detrimental).

At this point I am trying to stay positive but all I can find on the internet is the negatives, both for the disease and the med. Any information, resources, personal experience, guidance, etc would be very gratefully appreciated. Friends and family are trying to help but don't seem to know what to say. I am scared and worried about future limitations (I am currently 58)

Thank you.

hi, towanda - i have a close relative with RA. it certainly complicates life. eating healthfully is one of the most important things you can do as it will keep your metabolism strong. i'm talking about lots of veggies and lean meats. increasing calcium intake also helps. glad to hear you are planning on going to the gym and dropping some weight as that will help you feel a lot better in the long run. i take fish oil myself but my research has shown that glucosamin / chondroitin does nothing, so don't waste your money on it. exercise that is low impact is the best; i suggest getting a bicycle. yes, the internet is full of negatives but exercising and losing weight is VERY positive and you will feel the difference! hang in there - living with chronic ailments is never easy but it pays both mentally and physically to fight the good fight! all the best to you.

[kindachaotic]

I was dx'd with rheumatoid arthritis in summer of 1994. Managed with 3 different meds until Dec of 2004 & had to start methotrexate 5-6 pills once weekly plus 1mg of folic acid daily. Depending on lab results, which for me are done every 8-12wks. Biggest complaint with methothrxate is hair loss but have heard lots of people don't have this issue.
Methotrexate has really helped me mostly with hands & feet but overall too.
Doing even 20 min a day of non-jarring exercise helps when able. I have been astounded by the benefits of yoga, just basic "soft" stretching poses. Also on other days a quick 20 min walk helps & gives you some fresh air.
Otherwise learn to listen to your body. This dx isn't the end of the world.

Best wishes, PM me anytime.