Gut/GI-possible RA connection?
Hello, I was diagnosed with RA in 2022.
I have had major gut issues two years prior to and since developing RA. My symptoms are pain, gastroparesis, weight loss, constipation (over 50 lbs.)
I've lost a lot of muscle. I've read online about rheumatoid cachexia but two rheumatologist have dismissed it. My GI doc said autoimmunity can affect the gut, both rheumys say no.
I drink meal shakes in addition to small meals. I've had full GI workup. It's a little frustrating.
I also have very low blood pressure. 90s/60s. Trying to get my strength back.
My RA seems to be in remission with methotrexate and low dose prednisone.
Thanks
Hi
I am not a doctor so I can't confirm whether autoimmune conditions have a direct correlation with gut health. One thing that may be helpful is connecting with our sister community, https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/. Warmly, - Reggie, RheumatoidArthritis.net team member 
thank you for reaching out. Sounds like you have been through a lot. I have attached an article from the Mayo Clinic that I think you may find helpful. https://individualizedmedicineblog.mayoclinic.org/2023/09/18/mayo-clinic-researchers-identify-link-between-gut-bacteria-and-pre-clinical-autoimmunity-and-aging-in-rheumatoid-arthritis/. Regarding Methotrexate, I have taken it orally and injection in the past. I have attached an article link below. My teammate discusses her journey on methotrexate and she gives some insight that you might find helpful. https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/what-to-expect-methotrexate.
Also, is the prednisone something that your rheumatologist has as a short term treatment plan or long term treatment plan? You may want to research if there is a link to muscle atrophy/weakness and steroid use.
I have used steroids sparingly throughout my almost 20 years diagnosed with RA. I am attaching an article link below, I wrote on my steroid use to help with RA management. https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/avascular-necrosis-osteonecrosis. I hope that you find the answers you deserve to. Always continue to advocate for yourself. Any questions, please just reach back out. Just Keep Swimming...Lynn Marie, "RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member"
Hi
. Just to follow up on the link Reggie provided for our IBD sister-site. I happen to also be a moderator for that site and can tell you that IBD is an inflammatory autoimmune condition. There are different kinds of IBD (see: https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/what-is-ibd) and we cannot provide diagnostics, but your GI doctor did give you proper information and should be able to provide further guidance. It is not rare for autoimmune conditions to piggyback on each other. Hoping you get some answers soon and wishing you the best. Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
