new RA diagnosis and confused | Arthritis Information

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my x-rays show some early signs of RA. I have pain in my hands late at night and early morning, for short periods, then stiffness during the day. I also have ulcerative colitis (another autoimmune disease), but it is completely in remission right now. I've lost weight, am very tired every day, and have bad
pain in my back. My RA specialist wants me to start on Remicade, but I'm worried about side effects, having to stop it if I get an infection, and then it not working. my hands and knees hurt the worst, and the back is probably due to severe degenerative disk disease. I'm just worried about starting on such strong medications. I'm also not sure if the other medications wouldn't be better to start, like Enbrel or Humira or methotrexate. Anybody have any advice? I'd really appreciate some!
Thanks! Welcome Gale - Sorry you have to be here, but good for you to reach out and find some support.  Take some time, but not too long and research the different medications, discuss it with your doctor and make a decision that is right for you.  Some make a decision based on what their insurance coverage is.  Others on what is more convienient.    Try not to get too freaked out on the side effects.  I was at first and then realized in the long run, stopping damage was more important.  I was diagnosed very early and felt that window of opportunity would allow me to maybe control RA and have a better outcome.  

 
Take care
Cathy 
Hi Gale, welcome. Do your research, go well armed with your questions and decide with your RD what you both think is best for you. There is a lot of trial goes into getting the medication right.. unless you are very lucky.

Good luck
Sarah.  Hi Gale..I think, especially since this is all brand spankin' new to you, you might consider a second opinion.  I'm not saying I think your doc is wrong, I just think a second opinion could give you some peace of mind concerning some big decisions you'll be making in the near future.  Welcome to the board, I hope you'll stick around :)hello GaleMary.. (I keep thinking Hail Mary full of grace)
 
Sorry you need our "services" but glad to have you aboard.
 
if you unsure about the RD's recommendations... look for a second as Linncn said.
 
best to you!
Gale,
 
Welcome to the board.  Sorry you have a reason to be here, but glad to meet you.  I agree with the others who recommend researching.
 
I remember when I started Enbrel, I was worried that I would have infections all the time.  In reality, I've been pretty healthy.  In the last 16 months since I started the Enbrel, I haven't had to stop the Enbrel once.  A few weeks ago, I thought I had a sinus infection.  Turned out to be an allergy.
 
Hi Gale..welcome!
 
I would ask your doctor what his/her opinion would be to maybe try methotrexate first.  Just my opinion, but I don't think I'd jump right to remicade first.  Again..this is only what I'd do in my own situation.
 
Kelly
HI Gale, firstly welcome, a 2nd opinion is a great idea or just learn to trust your RD, usually they know what they are doing, this disease and its processes, and treatments are so confusing, as you can see from the board, even those of us who have had it for years are still asking questions, you are not alone, my advice to all newbies is to keep a journal, you will need it for all your future Drs, hospital trips, etc etc.  They are invaluable, keep a note re your symptoms etc too, it really helps to look back sometimes as we can all get lost with the unpredictability of RA.  Best of luck from Janie.   Hello GaleMary, welcome. Has your physician explained why he/she wants to begin with Remicade? My tendency would be to have that question answered to my satisfaction before beginning the treatment.

I too am a great believer in second, and even third, opinions.

Best wishes, Shug

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