Visit to RD-Changed meds | Arthritis Information

First of all thanks Meme for asking about visit and for being so sweet.Well came home off the road ,called Rd office asked if he has any opening.They told me Monday,he didn't have any opening till Late Thurs. afternoon.told them I would be back on the road before then.She asked if I wanted to talk to the nurse,so I did.I told her I am in pain and so very stiff I can hardly move.My ankles and knees keep swelling up.I have to keep taking prescription water pills every other day(which I keep cramping up from)been taking potassium pills so i won't get to bad.She let Dr. know, he called me back.He's great he always calls back himself.He said I need to see you today.I got there and he took me right in.I am thankful to have a Dr.that takes time to call himself,and not just gives a message to a nurse.He said sulfasalzine 3000mg isn't working .And everytime I lower the prednisone you get so stiff,and your fingers lock up.BUT I need to get you off the pred.So I'm going to start you on MTX.He did say patients that respond well to prednisone,like me do well on MTX(hope so,have fingers crossed-well sort of-can't quit cross them-to stiff)He has me on 7.5 mg once a week for 2 weeks then increase to 12.5mg the next week.Stay on the 12.5 mg. of prednisone.He sent me downstairs to get an extra of chest done.I see him again on the 29th of this month.I started the MTX yesterday,all went well,just got extremely TIRED(lucky I was home and didn't need to drive)I never got sick from the medicine,just HURTING.Hope this med doesn't take weeks and weeks to kick in .At least I'm being pampered by my hubby,HE IS THE SWEETEST.Hope everyone is having a good day.I leave out on road tonight.Sherry S18wheeler38511.244525463WOW, my Rheumy never calls me back personally! I always get the nurse. Think I need a new one. aww sounds like ur having a tough time, hang in there hun. i hope you feel better. yeah your rheumy sounds awesome so it seems that you are in good hands! good luck to you and i hope your feeling better soon. *hugs*

Sherry; I'm so glad he's changed your meds...Sulfersalzine is often their first line of defense....and often it's not effective for long if at all.

I'm a big fan of MTX; I've done well on it after 3 years (recently added Humira) now at 22.5mg weekly. It does take a little time to get in your system well....don't give up on it too quickly.

Good Luck!!

sulpha not really working for me either anymore, but i'm not ready for mtx and little other option when you can't take anti inflammatories! i'm glad you got help and hope it works for you