Weight loss

Hi . Weight loss can often be an early sign/symptom of RA (see: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/symptoms/early-signs). Some treatments, particularly steroids, often lead to weight gain, but as noted in this article from the Arthritis Foundation, "Being underweight can certainly be a problem for people with RA. The same pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF, that damage the joint tissue in people with RA can also lead to weight loss, muscle wasting and weakness:" https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/related-conditions/physical-effects/expert-q-a-ra-and-weight-loss. Of course, the weight loss could have other causes, so it is important to discuss the issue with your doctor. Hoping you get some answers soon. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)

After thirty years or so of RA I am no longer surprised at the things it causes. I have been subject to both weight gain and wight loss due to the RA and its surrounding effects. A lot of times when I am going through a flare-up, it may not cause weight loss directly but since I just feel like crap and a bit nauseous it just makes me not eat and causes weight loss as a secondary effect. Also, some of the medications I took had a side effect of curbing the appetite. There are so many ways RA can affect your weight that I wouldn’t be surprised, frankly. Let us know if there’s anything else we can do to help and check out that article that Richard recommended! Keep on keepin’ on, DPM