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...

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Menstural cycle

Caspiana
Caspiana
Hi. I was wondering if you found that your mentstural cycle got longer/ shorter or your period came at different time than usual? My period has started coming much earlier than usual and it goes on for at least 7 days whereas before I had RA mine was always light and finished within 3 days or so. Anyone experiencing this?
PJamela
PJamela
Well, this did happen, but I can't be sure it is from the RA. I am post menopausal and so my doctor put me on a low dose birthcontrol to keep my periods on a regular basis. (and I had my tubes tied when my last child was born). I'm 49 years old. Is your age a factor?
PJamela
PJamela
Also, I just read this article on how hormones my play a part or they are looking at the possibility that they do.
"Researchers are also uncovering the complex relationships between the hormonal, nervous, and immune systems in rheumatoid arthritis. For example, they are exploring whether and how the normal changes in the levels of naturally produced steroid hormones (such as estrogen and testosterone) during a person's lifetime may be related to the development, improvement, or flares of the disease. Scientists also are researching how these systems interact with environmental and genetic factors. The results of this research may suggest new treatment strategies."
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=60768&page=6#toci
Caspiana
Caspiana
I'm 35 so I guess I might be experiencing some hormonal changes. My mum had menopause quite young. Thank you so much for the link and your reply. I am going to have a dig around on the subject. Cheers again!