Got Results via Rheumy Visit

[Guest guest]

Had my follow up appointment with my Rheumy today. She diagnosed me

with seronegative RA. Continued high SED and CRP. Wants to start me

today on Methotrexate and folic acid and continue for 2 weeks on the

20mg of Prednisone and start weaning off the Pred. in 2 weeks if all

goes OK with the Methotrexate. Also wants me to get a physical therapy

evaluation particularly for my knees and hips as it appears I'm losing

significant muscle tone. Says also have a fair amount of Osteo

Arthritis going on as well which just adds to the fun. That part I

can blame on my age (59) and a pretty active life.

At least I got a diagnosis and a plan for treatment. We'll have to

continue to take it a day at a time to see how well it goes with the

MTX. Not crazy about that but I know it could be a hell of a lot

worse. Fortunately for now the Prednisone is handling a good 50%+ of

the pain. Just hope the MTX is as effective. I know I wasn't going to

be able to stay on the Pred. forever and certainly don't want the side

effects from that so from what I've learned on this forum is it seems

to be the right approach.

Thanks to all of you for your support and great advise. I've learned a

ton here.

Bob