Advice for upcoming Dr appointment
About 6 months ago I was diagnosed with RA. At this point it is a very mild case. Mild enough that my doctor and I decide to not start any medication and monitor my situation. I am not one to jump into taking any sort of medication so I was glad to take that path. Now I feel that everyday I ache. Nothing bad but always something and I'm growing tired of it. I'm a pretty active person and my achiness is starting to make my not want to do certain activities. I spoke with my doctor and he is recommending I start a low dose of Hydroxychloroquine. He asked me to do some research on the medication and make a list of any questions for my upcoming appointment this week so we can discuss it.
I'm looking for some advice. What questions should I be asking? What are other peoples experiences with this medication? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
Hi
. Your concerns are certainly understandable and it is good that you are seeking out a place you can get information and support. First, mind if I ask if you are seeing a rheumatologist or being treated by your GP? I ask because rheumatologists have received additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal diseases and autoimmune conditions. Early treatment of RA can often be beneficial. As noted in this research article "Aggressive treatment after the first 3–4 months of symptoms, with either disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs or anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α therapy, reduces the rate of disease progression:" https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3145120.
I can't personally speak to hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), but I can tell you that it is often a treatment that RA patients are started on. I want to share with you this article from our editorial team giving an overview of the drug, including potential side effects: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment/hydroxychloroquine. Our patient leader David wrote here on his experience and the sun issues that can come with Plaquenil: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/heat-waves. I can also tell you that eye issues are one thing that needs to be closely monitored with Plaquenil and this article goes into further detail: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/symptoms/eye-problems.
Also, you asked about questions for the doctor. I want to share with you this article from our contributor, Kelly Mack (full disclosure - I'm her husband), on just this topic (although not focused on Plaquenil): https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/questions-for-the-doctor. Hope this information is helpful and that others chime in with their experiences. Please feel free to keep us posted on how you are doing and to ask additional questions. Best, Richard (Team Member)Thank you for the reply and all the information. I am see a rheumatologist.
