Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

2,179 Members

16,355 Posts

0 Online

kathygreenmanlockhar 05/28/2015

For about 20 years I've had nausea to the point that it's hard to eat. I've also had untreated sero-neg RA for at least 30 years. Help! I've had every kind of stomach-digestive test and they couldn't find anything. I've given up gluten and nothing.

Are RA and stomach problems related?

fibrolizzy 05/28/2015

I have queasiness or nausea quite frequently. My rheumatologist told me it is a symptom of RA, calling them our flu-like symptoms. He says it's due to our bodies trying to fight off the disease.

I've read on other groups that lots of people take meds for nausea, such as zofran. I find that ginger helps me, when it's not too bad. You can buy it in capsule or candy form, or make into a tea.

I'm sorry you have this.....it sure is frustrating I know! Btw, I test negative, too. I don't think that has anything to do with it. I'd talk to your doctor about it. If it's really bad, I'd ask for a prescription for it.

I just went back and read your post again. Why isn't your doctor treating you? Damage is being done, if left untreated. Are you seeing a rheumatologist? It may be a time for a doctor change, if he's not treating you.

lindamassey 05/28/2015

Hi Kathy,

I also have gastro-intestinal issues long before RA diagnosis. Nausea and intestinal issues for really most of my life. I have always been told that it is IBS. Recently, though, my rheumy has felt that it may simply be due to the inflammation in the digestive tract caused by RA. Which of course leads to IBS.

I just feel that we RA patients are inflamed from head to toe. I'm also curious why you are not being treated.

Linda

carrottop50 05/29/2015

Have had IBS for over 20 years and my doctor said it is from RA inflammation so when I can get the inflammation down in my body the IBS is better. Like the others have said RA can affect all parts of your body. My Pulmonologist seems to think that RA has affected my heart now too. So I am off to see cardiologist next.

beechfeet 05/29/2015

Thank goodness, I've wondered about this, have had a sensitive digestive system many years & now I know.

LynnRivers 06/02/2015

Be a little careful with the catch-all IBS... Often it turns out to be something more just undiagnosed. Food sensitivity or early diverticulitis. If symptoms change or worsen, getting a colonoscopy is a very good idea especially if you are on immuno suppressants.

Getting blood tests for food sensitivity is also a good idea. Reducing inflammatory load by addressing sensitivities has got to be a good thing.

Besides who just wants to put up with IBS... It really sucks!

Join the Conversation