Need help with Arava decision PLEASE

[Guest guest]

My name is and I've been a lurker for a long time. After years of

being treated like a hypochondriac, I'm now getting treatment. So far dx's

are n's, RA, FMS, osteo, IBD and GERD. Just to make things more fun I

also have two torn discs in my lower back (L4 & 5) and cataracts. I take meds

including MTX, pred., folic acid, Paxil Cr, Zocor, Lipitor, trazadone,

zanaflex and Lortab for pain.

My rheumy started me on Arava to help slow down damage in feet and hands

(in particular) but it made me feel awful. I was exhausted, feverish, had a

headache, mouth sores and just couldn't function. He told me to stop for a

week and then start again--tomorrow. I really don't know what to do. The

side effects truly scared me and I just don't see how something that makes

me so sick can be good for me! If anyone has had experience with this drug,

I'd greatly appreciate any feedback or encouragement you could give me.

Sorry to whine so darn much. Most times I do well and manage a wonderful

quality of life. I have a lot of faith, a DH, great kids and am stubborn

enough to fight tooth and nail against these problems. I feel like a wimp

when there are so many in the group worse off than me and they never

complain. But right now I need help badly. Thanks for listening and sorry

this is so long.

in NC