looking for information on RA (nodules)

[sheraf61]

i have a severe case of RA, I also have nodules from head too toe.  Looking for someone in the same boat , that i can ask questions.  Please help me if you can.  thank you  sheraf61

[txsilver]

Hi.  I have RA but do not have nodules, yet.  What questions do you have?  Maybe I can help or someone else be able to jump in.

[msfergy]

Are Nodules the little ball like things in the back of the legs perhaps? I have those but don't know what they are.

[spastic]

Here is some info I pulled about RA nodules:

As part of the rheumatoid process, firm, non-tender, subcutaneous nodules develop in about 25 percent of rheumatoid arthritis patients. These are commonly found at pressure points like the elbow, back of the forearm, and metacarpophalangeal joint. Nodules usually occur in chronic active cases of rheumatoid arthritis, and are commonly associated with more joint deformity and serious extra-articular manifestations including lungs, eyes, and blood vessels. Nodules may vary in size during the course of the disease process,

Johns Hopkins claims complications of rheumatoid nodules include:

pain
limited joint mobility
neuropathy
ulceration
fistula formation
infection

Surgical removal is an option, but nodules tend to reoccur in as little as a few months when they are present over an area of repeated trauma. Intranodular steroid injections may reduce the size of the nodule.

I hope this info helps some.

Your Friend,

Spastic

[sheraf61]

Thankyou for  the information.   .  I am having surgery on my arms to remove a few nodules, would like to see if they indeed come back before i do my feet or any other parts.  I am very happy to have read your comments and yes they were helpful.  Please keep in touch, i will report back to you after the surgery.                                                                                                                                                      sheraf61

[Liz42]

I too have some nodules. Most tiny. One about size of small grape by my elbow.  My doc indicated that it was related to taking methotrexate.  

[sheraf61]

I have taken the methotrexate, was on it for maybe 3 years. I did have my nodules before that i believe.  I have heard that it can cause nodules also. I am now on enbrel,and arava, folic acid for my RA.  I have not been able to get my RA under control as of yet.  When i have flare up where can't get out of bed, need help dressing i usually take steroids, that is a great drug for giving you your mobility back.  I hope you don't end up with them everywhere, they are painful on the bottom of the feet, and palms and fingers, makes it difficult to do anything.  If you start getting lots i would see about another drug possibly.  All the best to you Sheryl