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testosterone therapy and RA

Is anyone here doing testosterone therapy? I am 15 months post hysterectomy and have been doing estrogen and testosterone replacement since day one.

My free T has always been too low with hrt, and since the beginning and has steadily been decreasing, even with slight dosage increases.

The last couple on months I have been experiencing so much more joint and muscle pain. Toes, knees, hips, elbows, etc. It's prompted my to go back to the rheumatologist and make sure my Raynauds hasn't progressed to an autoimmune thing like RA. Also seeing my hormone lady to see if it's hormone related.

But.....I wanted to see if anyone here is doing hrt and if it has affected RA or vice versa. Because out of nowhere, my last testosterone level was 435!!!!! That is crazy high, especially for me. The last check was in Dec. and it was only 75. I did not have a dose increase, either.

I have no idea if an autoimmune thing can mess up hormone levels--mostly you read about RA and low testosterone, not too high. Or if wacked out hormone levels can trigger a flare if you do have RA.

Mostly I'm just confused. Anybody here on hrt?

  1. Hi mamadee. Sorry you are having these difficulties. Hopefully there are some people who will share their personal experiences. Thought you might be interested in this article from our editorial team on RA and women's health, including links to additional specifics: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/women-health/. Hope you find some answers soon. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)

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