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RA and COVID vaccine

Hey all I know the COVID shot is a sensitive subject around many but I need advise or insight … I am 40f have had RA for about 15 years now was on plaquenil up until 4 years ago when I was diagnosed with kidney cancer .. I had my left kidney removed and was told that for the time being should not be on any meds to control the RA a year after I was rediagnosed with bladder cancer and a year after that bladder cancer again I went through 22 chemo washes that I just finished so I have been reading up on the affects of the shot and people with RA and have seen in some places that the shot is putting some into flairs that have been lasting a long time but all these people were on meds and drs were giving them prednisone to help ease the flair …. Seeing how I am not on any meds and having only 1 kidney and can’t go on steroids I’m worried about getting the shot and what it might do to me I’ve had flairs that I have just dealt with a lot of nights crying wishing I was someone else and doing all I can to lessen the pain now that I am eligible for the shot I’m worried ..so I guess I was just wondering if there is anyone else who can’t be treated for RA that has gotten the shot or if anyone could give me insight …. Tytytytytytyty

  1. Thanks for sharing your story and reaching out. I hope others share their personal experiences with you. Ultimately, it's a very personal decision that you should discuss with a physician you trust. You of course need to consider your risks and personal medical history. In addition to speaking with your doctor, this article may be helpful: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/rituxan-infusion-covid19-vaccine. Wishing you peace of mind in your decision. Best, Kelly, Rheumatoidarthritis.net Team Member

    1. I'm so sorry for all that you've been through.
      I can't speak to NOT being able to take drugs for RA, but this much I know: when RA is not being controlled by DMARDS, it often waxes and wanes. So it would be easy to blame the COVID shot on an RA flare, when in fact it may have nothing to do with the COVID shot.

      1. I have RA and had the phizer shots...was fine

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