Question
I don’t “live” right now, I just “exist” from day to day. My treatment for RA is Rituxan infusions, Prednisone only for extreme flares (I refuse to take it otherwise) and Valium for sleep. I am currently pregnant and off my medications; however, my OBGYN said that it is safe to take the Valium since I am in my 3rd trimester. Even with the Valium, I am taking much less than I am permitted. My unborn child is very healthy and I am being monitored closely. I am so tired and in so much daily pain. I would give almost anything to have just a few minutes of painlessness – like I used to be. I am tired of medications, needles – it all seems useless. The RA affects my breathing at times, my back, neck, hips, toes. I worry that I will not be able to take care of my child that I am carrying. How much pain is one expected to take? Do you think that there will be a cure? What do you think about stem cell treatments for RA? I am physically and mentally exhausted from this disease and the research that I do every day to see if someone can help me. I am having a really difficult time. I will never accept this disease. I just want out of this body of mine. After my child is born, I would be willing to do any research trials that are going on; I have nothing to lose at this point. Can you help me in any way?
Answer
There are many advances and new treatments for RA, but as story highlights, we have a long way to go. You should go to a specialized center like the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center where your treatments can be reviewed. If no approved therapies are appropriate, then you might wish to become involved in a clinical research trial of a new medication.
