Re: New to group and PA

[Guest guest]

Chuck,

I'm on MTX for the 2nd time. It works for me, but not

for everyone. If you start MTX be sure to also go on

Folic Acid. However, don't take the Folic Acid on the

same day you take the MTX.

For me, it took about 3 months to completely control

the swelling and pain, because no one knew how much I

needed. Also, be sure they get Liver Function and CBC

panel blood tests at least every 2 months. MTX does

effect the liver on a cumulative basis and can effect

red and white blood counts in additionto platelets.

As for weather changes. Watch out for those low

pressure systems. If you're like me, you'll know when

one is coming. lol Until the PsA is controlled you

may have increased pain prior to a low pressure system

that goes away with a high pressure system.

Stress, both physical and mental, can effect the PsA.

In my case, I've learned the warning signs that I'm

doing too much or worrying too much. There are meds

to help you tolerate the pain. Just remember, that

pain meds simply mask the problem.

As for the marijauna? I don't have a clue.

Hope this has helped. Remember we are all individuals

who act and react differently to meds. There are

other meds for the condition, so you just have to be

patient.

Keep reading the messages and check out the archives.

There is a wealth of knowledge in the group.

Look luck,

Sandy

-

[Guest guest]

MTX has helped me. It may take a month or so to see much difference. I use

VIOOX which helps some, but raises my blood pressure. Yes, low pressure areas

do make a difference for me. I personally wouldn't recommend you try pot

because of the trouble that you could get into & because of the 8 year old

child...it may help the pain, but if you have to hide while " you're under the

influence " you can't have much of a life...get something legal to help the

pain...lot less complicated.

[Guest guest]

I haven't used MTX. I'm doing well with Celebrex (an NSAIDS) and

Hydroxychloroquine (a disease modification drug). I

Weather definitely has an effect on the stiffness. I can usually

tell that bad weather is coming.

Stress is also definitely a factor and makes both P and PA flare up.

One piece of advice about the meds, people react to them

differently. Try different meds and different dosages. Celebrex did

not do well for me until I went to the max dosage. Then it was the

best NSAID I have used (in 10 years).

[Guest guest]

---

Hi,

Welcome to the group. I've had P since I was 12 years old and wasn't

diagnosed with PA until last year even though I had the symtoms for

years; I was diagnosed with gout at first also. You will learn alot

from everyone in this group-it is a great group.

God Bless, Sue.

In , " putter592004 "

<lynn.stoness@s...> wrote:

>

>

> Hi! I have been recently been dignosed with PA. It is all very

> confusing since I have been dignosed with everything from RA to

> gout. Now, they say it is for sure PA. I don't have a lot of

> patches or scalp involvement, but a few other symptoms. Would love

> to talk with others with PA

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 11/26/2004 8:59:21 AM Eastern Standard Time,

lynn.stoness@... writes:

Hi! I have been recently been dignosed with PA. It is all very

confusing since I have been dignosed with everything from RA to

gout. Now, they say it is for sure PA. I don't have a lot of

patches or scalp involvement, but a few other symptoms. Would love

to talk with others with PA

Hi Lynn,

Welcome to the group. Are you taking any meds right now and are you seeing

a good rheumatologist. Where do you live?

Janet