synoval inflamation

[Guest guest]

I have been on this list for a few years and although I haven't posted recently,

I have been lurking. I enjoy all the comments, find them very helpful and have

told many others about this list.

I was diagnosed with RA about five years ago. It was diagnosed when a thumb

tendon ruptured. A year later the thumb tendon on my other hand ruptured. I had

three operations on my wrist in about a year.

My rheumy put me on methotrexate which I didn't really want and caused problems

with my liver. He then gave me minocin reluctantly and after a lot of pushing

for it on my part. He doesn't believe in the mycoplasma theory. I was on minocin

until the price increase when Triax purchased it. I switched to minocycline

which seemed to work just fine, but then went on doxcy when I started to get

hyperpigmentation.I have done well on the antibiotics much to the surprise of

the doctor. However, for a year I have had swelling in my wrist. An MRI shows a

lot synovial fluid and was said to be moderate to severe. I am concerned about

another tendon rupture. My rheumy said the only thing that would get rid of the

fluid/inflammation is orencia or enbrel or arava and plaquinil together. He also

said I could try methotrexate again as he thinks the liver problem was really

due to other things contributing to it at the time and now I could tolerate it!

I do not want to take any of these heavy duty meds if at all possible, but I

want to be rid of this fluid and inflammation. I would really appreciate

suggestions, as I am in a quandary.

I am in the process of trying to find another doctor to go to. I have never been

happy with him but at least he would prescribe mino.

Any feedback would be very much appreciated.