Looking for some input regarding ongoing treatment for my husband's RA. One of the reasons that we moved to Panama was because our online research for his treatment options pointed to the Stem Cell Research for the treatment of RA here in Panama. However, the process of becoming qualified for the program, etc. could take awhile, and may not take place at all. Meanwhile, his US doctor started him on weekly injections of Methotrexate, and we brought with us about a 6 month supply. We've been to Farmacia after Farmacia to see if we can get his US Prescription refilled here, in Panama, with no luck. Are there any RA sufferers out there who can lend us some advice regarding finding a local Rheumatoligist and willing to share the treatment options available here in Panama?
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My RA doctor at U of Texas medical center told me to swim three times a week and she would cut my meds in half.
I was taking methotrexate, voltaren, prednisone and Vicodin. I had nothing to loose except more pain. 25 years and 7-8 surgeries later, I am still swimming and doing water exercises. I do not take any medication and have not for years. You must never stop moving. Think positive, eat as healthy as possible and do the best you can.
A good friend of mine has severe rheumatoid arthritis and Lupus and has been treated by Dr. Celso DeLeon at Hospital Chiriqui. She is able to get all her medicines, including prednisone and methotrexate at the social security clinic here in Boquete. She has also received one of the new "biological"treatments that is delivered via infusion, with astonishingly wonderful results. Another friend who sought a second opinion from doctors in Panama City was told that she could do no better than Dr. Celso. I wish you all the best; RA is a truly nasty disease.
Herta
Thank you! Thank you so much!
Thank you so much for sharing this information. We will review and research this avenue further.
Gwen:
Thank you for your response! We are aware of the Methotrexate pills. Hubby has gastro issues that caused added problems to the already severe side effects...so, Dr. said that injection will bypass gastro and should work better. And so far, it seems to be. We are anxious to learn what you have to share with regard to your experiences.
Deborah
At least you should try one month without nightshades.
Reduced the pain in my hands
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4ty4oyuSog
Tintin:
What most people don't understand is, Rheumatoid Arthritis is not "old age" setting into your bones. That is OsteoArthritis. RA is an autoimmune disease. Not saying that the proper diet wouldn't be helpful with some of the symptoms of RA...but, diet alone will not stop the progression of the disease.
Has he tried eliminating wheat?
Ken and Becky;
Thanks for your response. No, he hasn't and at this point in time we are searching for ONE direction to follow at a time. While the Stem Cell Research project is "pending" for us...we are looking to follow through with the Methotrexate until we know where that is going to go. Are you an RA Sufferer? Do you know where or how we might get our hands on the Methotrexate?
http://www.wheatbellyblog.com/2013/06/how-quickly-does-wheatlessnes...
No, but I have other problems that went away eliminating wheat. My knees hurt so bad I was taking Advil all day long with knee braces, fibromyalgia, psoriasis, pre-diabetes. All in remission because I don't eat wheat any more.