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Menopause and RA

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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Posted 4/5/2008 5:12 AM (GMT 0)
Hi, I'm new to the site. Is anyone going through RA and menopause at the same time? I was diagnosed at 40 1/2 with RA and will be 44 this month. I started menopause early. My hormones and flare ups seem to coincide at times. When I asked my rheumy this last visit he said there were some studies about hormone levels effecting/causing inflamation. (Of course, that would have been nice to know a few years ago!) Anyone else heard of/experienced this?

I'm actually doing quite well--I'm just on enbrel right now. I get sinus infections more than I like, but besides that, I've been fairly fortunate.
Posted 4/5/2008 11:43 PM (GMT 0)

Hi Gracie,

I also found out when I was diagnosed with Ra that a change in hormone levels can cause RA.  I had a hysterectomy in 2004, I was 37.  I couldn't take any HRT and was also on a med that removes excess estrogen from your system. (reason was because I had a high risk of recurrent breast CA).  Anyway, what really helped me through the menopause was the antidepressant Effexor.  After about a month I had no more hotflashes or nightsweats. 

It's hard going through both I think because of the mood swings with the change in hormones.  Not much of an answer but I know how you feel.

Take Care and welcome to the forum

Raven

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