Rheumatoid arthritis

07907261452

I was diagnosed over a year ago I have tried all DMARD meds but sadly had bad reaction with everyone now trying to put me on biologics which scares me to take them I don’t know what to do?

Im in a lot of pain so much inflammation in my joints elbows shoulders ankles feet etc

Any advice about biologics as I’m scared I don’t want all these infections that go with it I was told UTI etc & I’m dont like needles

need advice

Ellen

Hello @07907261452 Lovely to meet you and welcome you to the online community.

You really do sound as though you have had a tough time with none of the DMARDs you've tried to date being able to help you. I can see why your consultant wants to try Biologics when you are clearly in so much pain and have high levels on inflammation.

I can understand you concerns about possible infections and you fear of needles too. Remember some are given by infusion (a drip) in hospital and doses can be widely spaced out, others are injections weekly. It might be an idea to tackle the needle fear first. I remember one member here whose daughter was diagnosed with leukaemia had hypnotherapy for needle phobia and tolerated her treatment really well afterwards.

I have found a thread from January by @jackiespilates who might still be nearby to update you on her progress:

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/56073/biologics-pros-and-cons

and this might just reassure you a little about biologics:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/research/research-achievements/anti-tnf-the-inflammatory-arthritis-treatment-revolution/

Please do let us know how you get on.

Best wishes

Ellen.