Like to introduce myself | Arthritis Information

Hi Everyone, I thought I'd finally introduce myself, I started reading about 3 months ago. I was diagnosed w/ RA in Feb. 06 Until then, the docs had said "non-specific auto-immune disease" for many years.

My blood work was inconclusive until now, but it is now conclusive with Gusto! RA is 658; Sed rate was 70, now down to 60. CCP Antibody strong positive at +250.

I am now on MTX inj., Mobic but the MTX isn't really working very well. My inflammation blood tests are still high so I don't know what my RD will try next. I've only been on the injections for 2 weeks.

Also, have had severe OA, FMS, Scoliosis,ETC for many years.

I've enjoyed this forum very much and will write more later

Thanks to all for your words!

Welcome Nini. Good to see you posting.

Can you try a biologics next? I take 25mg of MTX and Humira weekly. I'm doing really well. Maybe something like this could work for you as well?

Glad you're here.

Lovie38873.7617939815Hi Nini...welcome!

Thank you Lovie and Kelstev for your welcomes.

I think my Doc will probably try one of the biologics at my next appt. I kind of think they have a certain protocol they have to go through to satisfy the insurance company. Like trying MTX first, then MTX injections, then whatever is next in line. I'm not sure, just guessing.

My original RD is moving, so I will be seeing his partner, who actually trained him. I don't mind that at all. I know her and she has a wonderful reputation, and is very kind and patient oriented.

Looking forward to being part of your community. You are all such good people and always have such kind words for each other!

Welcome Nini,

It's very frustrating when there is no quick or easy answer. The good news is, AI and the other boards tell you where everyone else has been. It's like a cheat sheet on RA. I can't imagine trying to get through this without it.
Welcome and I hope you write often.Welcome nini. You are in good hands here. Sounds like you have a good rheumatologist. I look forward to hearing from you.I'm on prednisone, plaquanil, mTX and enbrel although I'm currently off the enbrel and MTX due to shingles.

Welcome Nini. You are at the right place here. Looking forward to reading your posts.

Trisha

Thank you all so much for taking the time to welcome me!

I feel like I've just had a big hug!

Gentle hugs back to you all, Nini

Welcome Nina! Sorry to hear about your recent
diagnoses. But now you know just where things
stand and can procede with some agressive
treatment. Blessings,
TaraWelcom Nini! You are right about the path the docs have to follow for the insurance companies. Just hang in there. The MTX takes about 3 months before it starts to work, but if it doesnt or it doesnt help enough, hopefully your doc will add one of the biologics. I am on about the same timeline as you and I just started the Enbrel 2 weeks ago in addition to the MTX injections. I am starting to see some small changes already. Good luck and welcome to AI!Welcome! Glad you found us. Sorry it's from having this terrible disease too. Hopefully you'll get some relief soon.

Welcome Nini :) Hopefully now that you have been diagnosed, they can get you on a treatment plan that works for you.

Look forward to hearing more from you.

Welcome Nini! I am fairly new here also, but this is an invaluable resource. The veterans here have so much history with the disease that no matter what the question or problem, someone here has experienced the same. You can't find this kind of information in a doctors office or a medical book. I love this board . . . and hope you will too! I look forward to getting to know you through your posts.Welcome Nini. You have quite a list and now RA. Sorry that is how we meet but WELCOME Welcome Nini!! *hugs*

You are all so very kind! I feel like I belong here already.

Thanks so much for your words of encouragment. I'm trying to keep my hopes up. I tell myself that at least they have identified this, now, and have finally started treatment. Just very anxious for it to start working.

I know it won't fix all my problems but I have high hopes for some relief for this awful fatigue and hopefully get a little more use of my hands back.

The hands may be hoping for too much. I have OA very badly in both my thumbs. Had surgery on right thumb in June of 04, and by Dec 04 the surgery had failed and my thumb is now almost useless. I'm hoping, at least if the knuckles and wrists w/ RA can be helped maybe I won't lose any more function.

Enough for now. Hope you all have a good evening! Many thanks and blessings to everyone. Nini