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Oseoporosis RA Link?

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Posted 6/9/2010 12:43 PM (GMT 0)
I just found out that there is a link between RA and osteoporosis.  Evidently, the inflammation that comes from RA is a risk factor for developing osteoporosis, as is the use of prednisone and methotrexate.  I had no idea that osteoporosis was a possibility.  The only reason I investigated this is because I keep getting shin splints and plantar fascitis (sp) with no trauma or doing anything differently than I normally do.  My rheumy thought it was a bit strange, and keeps insisting that I must have done something (but I really haven't).  When I googled it, osteoporosis comes up, as these minor things can be early warning signs of the disease.  Does anyone here have osteoporosis in addition to RA (or other inflammatory arthritis)?  Does everyone take a calcium supplement?

Just curious.

El

Posted 6/10/2010 12:31 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Elcamino

I didn't know of the connection between the two and I am on pred and mxt and now I am extremely worried. I take calcium daily but have only been on them for the last 2 years. I have had RA for 4 years now.

I will discuss this with my specialist in July when I see him next.

I hope you keep well.
Posted 6/10/2010 5:36 PM (GMT 0)
I only knew of the prednisone link. When I was on it my dr. had me on calcium supplements and gave me a prescrip for fosamax. But then he did a bone density test and it did not support using the fosamax. Then my calcium levels were too high when I was on the supplements. I tapered off the prednisone and no longer take calcium.
Posted 6/11/2010 2:38 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks for the replies.  I guess I didn't mention that PPI use is also associated with osteoporosis.  I have severe reflux issues (a hypomotility disorder) and have been on double dose PPIs for many years.  That is also a factor.  I did not know that methotrexate was a contributing factor either, and I will ask my rheumy about that when I see him.  How do they measure calcium levels--blood test?  I could always ask for a level to be done.  I've been lactose intolerant since birth, so I don't do milk, but I haven't cut out dairy altogether.  Cheese doesn't bother me in small amounts. 

Posted 6/11/2010 4:41 PM (GMT 0)
yes they measure calcium with a blood test. Every 2 months my RD does a CBC, checks my ESR and CRP. I think the calcium is in the CBC- the liver enzyme levels too- I think. I always have the lab send a set home as well as to the doctor.
I watch my weight so I don't feel like I drink a lot of milk or eat cheese- I don't know where I get all my calcium from unless my body is just a super producer????
Posted 6/11/2010 6:29 PM (GMT 0)
I have been pain free for about 6 yrs im on methotrexate and now its back mostly in my feet annd hand and a little elbow issue.. my Doc. wants to put me on CIMZIA It scares me because of possible side affects..but i dont want to have this disease distort my joints...
He said my RA has burnt itself out which i dont totally understand ...because he sais it still can do damage and cause osteoporosis ,because of the initial damage the RA has done ...my bones are weak in certain areas This is so complicated to me
i take :Tumeric" It is a natural herb and its suppose to take away inflamation ...i also heard of a new drug thats injected that builds bone for OA ..not sure if that is something RA patients can take..
Has anyone heard of CIMZIA? and do you have any feedback?
Posted 6/12/2010 1:47 AM (GMT 0)
My Rhuematologist is also the co-director of the center for Osteoporosis and bone research.
Trust me-I knew about the link.
Yes, I take calcium and Vitamin D.
Remember D is as important as calcium to bone health and low vitamin D has also been linked to autoimmune disorders.
Posted 6/12/2010 5:47 AM (GMT 0)
The calcium I take has vitamin D included, my GP recommended I take it.
Posted 6/17/2010 4:05 PM (GMT 0)
Yep, this is true! At my last yearly check up it was decided based on the RA/Methotrexate plus my small size that it was best to have a bone scan done, to check for Osteo. If you have had RA and been on treatment for some time, it isn't a bad idea to get checked out early.
Posted 10/19/2011 3:11 AM (GMT 0)
Hi i have RA and also Osteoporosis and they keep telling me it is the Prednisone use that caused it, and i take calcium +vit D was told the Vit D hhelps the Body absorb the calcium without it you don't fully absorb the calcium

 

Posted 10/26/2011 10:37 AM (GMT 0)
I've had RA for 22years, yep I knew about the link, prednisone if used long term or permanent is a main contributer. I'm on vitamin D and caltrate and fosamax, I also keep active to help bone density.
yes, you need vitamin D to help absorb the calcium and also if your a big coffee drinker I'd rethink that, because excessive caffeine prevents the body from absorbing calcium. Prednisone use long term also causes teeth and gum problems.

Post Edited (Kayls75) : 10/26/2011 4:41:09 AM (GMT-6)

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