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Wife with Severe RA

wife has moderate to severe RA. Hands severely active and painful. On Humira and many other pills. Been 30 plus years RA.
Sees RHEUMATOLOGIST regularly.
Any one know of possible help?

  1. The only person who can really answer that question is the rheumatologist themselves because they know what can work due to your wife's specific situation. If pain is still present and disease is active than that can be a matter of discussing of another medication to try, or looking into integrative approaches in tandem to find more relief like addressing the gut health and so on. I'm sure she has tried a lot within the 30 plus years? -Effie, team member

    1. ty

  2. Hi . First, let me say that with also being the husband of someone with RA it is always great to see supportive spouses. My wife, Kelly Mack (a contributor here), was diagnosed at age two, 45 years ago. As Effie noted, if it seems the Humira is not controlling the RA, it is certainly reasonable to ask if a change in treatment regimen is necessary. Kelly wrote this article on how to know when to change medications: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/when-to-change-medications.
    Also, I want to share this article from our contributor Kat, who also happens to be an occupational therapist, on tips for improving hand strength and stability: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/stronger-hands-exercises. I know this won't solve a flare, but know that regular therapy can help maintain abilities. Please feel free to keep us posted on how things are going and to ask additional questions - this community is here for both of you. Best, Richard (Team Member)

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