Out of options?
I am so frustrated today. I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis in 2014. I have been on most medication combinations since then resulting in minimal relief and autoimmune hepatitis. My treatment options are limited, but today I was told there is nothing else for me to try. My current biologic provides me with about 60% relief for about 3 weeks. Week 4 is awful. Has anyone else had this experience where nothing works.
Hi
, I hear you on your frustrations, a lot of other members unfortunately can relate to your experiences, and I hope they chime in. That must be so discouraging to hear after not finding anything helping much. A lot of this you may find you've already done, but here's an article that might be helpful on making treatments more effective: https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/living/tips-to-make-psoriatic-treatment-more-effective/ we also have articles on natural treatments, if that's ever something you'd like to explore and haven't already: https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/managing-symptoms-naturally/. You may also want to consider a second opinion (bullet #4): https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/living/breaking-up-with-your-doctor/. I hope you're able to find something that works. Please don't give up hope!
Best,
Minel (Psoriatic-Arthritis.com Team Member)
I, too, feel like I’m out of options. I was diagnosed with PsA in 2017 in addition to Sjogrens, fibromyalgia, erythema nodosum, pars planitis, etc beginning over 50 years ago. (I’m old as dirt). I have taken Methotrexate, Leflunomide, etc and they did nothing. My rheumatologist decided to put me on a biologic, but I can only take Orencia because I had a melanoma removed successfully eight years ago. As the PsA progressed to more joints she added Sulfasalazine. I wonder if these medications are still working since PsA is progressing and think I may be out of options. (I have a lot of confidence in my rheumatologist.) Many joints hurt with left ankle and right shoulder added six weeks ago. I can take only Tylenol because CHF precludes ibuprofen. Any suggestions for pain and coping? Thanks!
Hi! You’re story sounds so similar to mine. I started on methotrexate, but the side effects were too much for me. I’m allergic to sulfa and also have multiple other autoimmune diseases (Hashimoto’s, AIH, gastroparesis, Fibromyalgia and others) I have complete faith in my rheumatologist, but I’m still flaring uncontrollably. It’s just frustrating.
I do not like to take opioids, I use meditation, Tai Chi, and distraction techniques for my pain.
