Rheumatoid arthritis; just diagnosed?

I have just been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, after several months of stiff and painful wrists and fingers, and sometimes feet and knees. I am still stunned by the fact that I will have to take drugs for a long time to come.

I have been prescribed methotrexate 10 mg once a week to start off - but when I came home from the hospital and read the information brochures given to me, I just went cold after reading about possible side effects, including hair loss and liver damage.
I am 54, generally well otherwise, have a good diet high in fruit and veg, no red meat, no dairy. Can anyone tell me your own experiences of methotrexate?
What will happen if I don't take it?
I feel I have managed my symptoms well so far, losing some weight and getting a bit more active; or am I just in denial about this?
Help!

Really sorry to hear that !
Methotrexate is like taking a cannon ball to kill a sparrow !!
The side effects are gross !
Make an appointment with a registered Homeopath who will work out some natural remedies for you. Homeopathy can be very effective in Ra!

I am 54 and take lots of heart medication and reading about the horrendous side effects that they have is quite daunting. One of the side effects is exhaustion halfway through the day. Nausea with the Ramipril is unpleasant but doesn't last long.
My friend's wife has rheumatoid arthritis and I know it can be very painful. I read recently that taking Turmeric helps with it. Have a look on the internet about its many healing properties.
PS I don't know whether you believe in God or not but prayers will help. x

visit the arthritis care site, they have people that suffer with all types of arthur, they discuss and have info on most meds, their benefits or not as the case may be. But more importantly they offer great support via chat etc including their experiences. I'd say this site is a must for all sufferers of arthur as it can be a scary time being newly diagnosed, i wish you much luck.

If your doctor is not willing to give you alternative medicatin choices then it's time for a new dr. Not every doctor knows everything! I think the best docotors will refer you when there is a situation that requires expertise! My family doctor is always willing to help me find a good doctor to talk to when he doesn't have the awnsers I need!

a man who does maintence for my housing projects smokes marijuana for his arthritis.