New to group

[Guest guest]

Hi,

I just joined this group today (not sure why I waited so long...),

although I was diagnosed with RA about 4 years ago. I've tried

Arava, methotrexate injections, Enbrel, Humira, Remicade, and one

dose of Orencia (I didn't continue Orencia due to a " fluttering "

sensation in my chest that lasted two weeks). I also had been taking

15 mg of prednisone for about three years, but then this past summer

I had a fractured hip (no trauma involved) that they suspect was from

bone weakness from the prednisone. (What a nightmare. Please be

cautious if you've been taking predisone long term...)

So, here I am asking for suggestions. Right now I am on methotrexate

and Remicade, and my hands and wrists are absolutely killing me. I

take Advil and Relafen to try to control the swelling and pain, but

it's obviously not helping. Today I broke down and took 10 mg of

prednisone to try to make it through these next few days.

I see my doctor on Jan. 2, and I'd like to talk through a new plan of

attack since I feel lousy. She has given me information on Rituxan,

so I guess I'd like to know if anyone has tried that route. (I know

it works on the B-cells instead of the T-cells.) I've also never

tried Kineret, so I guess I'd like to know if that one has helped

anyone out there, too. I have always wondered about herbal or

natural supplements, but don't know much about them.

BTW, I am 39 years old, work full time, and have four kids, so I lead

a very hectic life. I can barely lift my 22 month old onto his

changing table to change his diaper. I am really discouraged.

Thanks for listening! Any suggestions are welcome.

Patty