Are my symptoms normal?

Als13
Als13 Member Posts: 1
in Living with arthritis

I was diagnosed with RA about a month ago and was managing it with Naproxen/ibuprofen until Wednesday when I got started on Methotrexate tablets.
Following advice , I stopped taking the anti inflammatoires at the same time, but my condition the last few days has rapidly got worse. I had pain and some mobility problems before, but now I cannot get myself out of bed, out of chairs and simply cannot dress or wash myself. My body has completely shut down and the pain, particularly in my hips, knees and neck is unbearable. My feet are hot and painful to stand on and I’m not coping. Even with a co-codamol prescription I’m practically bed bound.
Is it to be expected? Was anyone else like this? I’ve heard that methotrexate can take 12 weeks to work and I can’t live like this for 12 weeks! :(

Comments

  • noddingtonpete
    noddingtonpete Moderator Posts: 1,243

    Hello @Als13 and welcome to the Community. We are a supportive and friendly group and I hope that will be your experience as well.

    It does take a while as with all drugs for them to help so it may be a while before they kick in properly, but if in doubt go back to your rheumatology team and ask them if things are going as they should be. I've also put some information in below from our website which I hope will be of help.

    https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/your-experiences/your-questions-answered/your-questions-on-methotrexate/

    and

    https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/treatments/drugs/methotrexate/

    Please let us know how you are getting on and I hope others will share their support and experience soon.

    Best Wishes

    Peter

    Need more help? - call our Helpline on0800 5200 520Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm

  • [Deleted User]
    [Deleted User] Posts: 0
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  • Hermione
    Hermione Member Posts: 19

    Hi Als13

    So sorry that things are so bad. It’s really important that your rheumatology team understand how much pain etc you’re in, because they may be able to offer you additional treatment. When I was first diagnosed with RA I was in massive pain and crying every day and night as I felt hopeless and desperate. Naproxen had no effect for me. When I eventually started on MTX the consultant gave me a steroid injection to bridge the gap before the MTX kicked in, and the pain relief was magical. Have you been offered this and could you ask whether it would be right for you?

    All the best and I hope things get better soon.

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