Hi, thanks for writing to XXXXXXX

As you have been diagnosed to have Rheumatoid arthritis one year back, You might be taking regular drugs like ANALGESICS and DMARD'S for control the disease process.

But these medicines will not effectively control the ACUTE FLAREUP'S of Rheumatoid arthritis. Taking CORTICOSTEROIDS is the only way to control the pain and swelling in this setting. And these steroids are to be taken only upon the advice of your treating doctor.

Also, pain will be perceived more in cool climatic conditions in RA. So always try to keep your extremities warm.

Hope I have addressed your issues. Happy to help for any further clarifications.

Regards

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Hi, thanks for getting back.

This is just to let you know that there is NO PERMANENT CURE (till date) for Rheumatoid arthritis as it is of auto immune origin and the treatment is going to be life long. There is no other go but to accept this fact.

All the DMARD's (disease modifying antirheumatic drugs) that you are consuming now will produce adverse reactions over a period of time. There are numerous side effects of each drug you are taking but each and every side effect will not be seen in every individual.

The common side effects of the drugs you are taking are as follows -

* Mext 7.5mg (METHOTREXATE) - headache, dizziness, tiredness, blurred vision. It mainly causes liver damage in the long run. So its essential to have LFT (liver function tests) done once in 2-3 months and the dosage of mext has to be adjusted accordingly.
* Sazo (SULPHASALAZINE) - loss of appetite, fever, nausea, rash
* HCQS (HYDROXY CHLOROQUINE) - itching, vomitings, loss of hearing, photo allergic reactions,mental disturbances. One of the serious side effects of this drug is Loss of vision due to retinal damage. So a regular eye checkup is necessary.

Regards

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