Well haven't posted in awhile, to be honest just been too damn depressed and hurting to do much of anything, but figured I would update. Been on MTX now for 5months, but can't really tell a difference, most days the pain is all over, fingers swelled where I can't make a fist on my right hand. Went back to the RA doc on the 3rd of November and he said "you look better", LOL, couldn't even straighten out my left arm, not to mention my feet are still killing me. Anyway, he said to stay on MTX, 10 mg's of pred a day and also perscribed me planquil (not for sure exactly what that is though). My upper arms feels like I have worked out, only not getting any results. About the only thing that seems to work anymore is about 800mg of ibu, and that only dulls it where I can walk without dropping to my knees. I still don't think it is RA in my feet though, because nothing has worked.
Phil
Phil, Plaquenil is just another one that they add to the mix. They usually try that one before making the jump up to a biologic. Has your doc tried Celebrex for you or Mobic. These are stronger ant-inflammatories. A lot of people get relief with the Celebrex. Also, mention to the doc that you are feeling depressed. Lots of us get that way because dealing with chronic is so difficult. So he might give you something for depression which can help with the pain.
It's good to see you back though.
I've heard of celebrex, but the only thing my doc has me on is MTX, predisone (dose too low I think) and now plaquenil. The pred use to work wonders (except on my feet), but now on 10mg's aday and it doesn't really do anything.
I feel so frustrated for you. You don't have many choices in docs and too far to go to see them. Do call and ask specifically if you can get them to call you in some Celebrex and also tell them the other things.
Phil, you know your body. Just push them on it. If they don't like it then tell them you need to see the doc sooner and get some more relief. Sometimes you do have to be a pain in their butt.
Remember, they think they have prescribe the answer for you. You need to relate that "we ain't there yet, folks."
I so look forward some day in the future when you will be telling us that something is working for you. It will eventually happen.