Shar
Hi Ida, It's good to hear from you! How are you feeling? You had to go up on the Prednisone, and I know that can be discouraging. This disease can be so frustrating! I am hopeful that I will be seeing improvements soon. My doctor started me on 10 mg of Methotrexate, which is taken one day a week. I took my first dose on Monday night, and I am amazed that I am noticing some good results already! My elbow is not giving me pain for the first time in months! Also, my knees have stopped hurting, and I took a very long and fast walk last evening with my husband! I will remain on 10 mg of Prednisone until I see my doctor in early November. Then, he will start me on a tapering schedule. He said I will stay on Methotrexate at a 15 mg dose indefinitely, but I have been started on 10 mg for the first to weeks. My doctor said he thinks I still have PMR, but if I do have some RA starting up, that the Methotrexate is good for both diseases. Methotrexate is a good medicine for preventing the damage that RA does to the bones and joints, so we aren't taking any chances by waiting to put me on it. The sooner I am treated, the better! Your dose of Prednisone is still within what my rheumatologist considers the safe range, which is anything at or below 7.5 mg. How is your fatigue? Do you have a lot of that yet? I hate the fatigue! Where is your pain these days? I hope you aren't suffering too much! Let me know how your are doing. I'm thinking of you and wishing you pain free days! Shar