Hi,I am Dr. Shanthi.E (General & Family Physician). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
I Am 60 Years Old Female Diagnosed With Rheumatoid Arthritis
I am 60 years old female diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis about 7 years ago. I had been having edema in my legs, feet and ankles and also shortness of breathe. My dr. put me on 40mg of Lasix and rx a echo. The echo showed pulmonary hypertension and diastolic dysfunction. I also saw a pulmonologist for a CT scan and Pulmonary Function test which both showed normal to rule out any lung issues. The pulmonologist believes the problem is from the diastolic dysfunction. I did have a stress test which the cardiologist said was fine. The cardiologist said the PH was around 35 and not that bad and hasn't issued any further action at this time, other than to come back in 3 months. Since I do have RA and heart disease can be a big issue with RA patients, should I push for more "pro-active" approach? I do see my Rheumatologist in a few weeks to make sure he knows about all of the recent tests and to get his reaction to what he might think should be done next. I had been on methotrexate for several years, then Humira last year before he stopped working. I am currently not on anything other than pain medication for the RA. I don't know anything about this cardiologist so I just want to be sure he is approaching this in the best way.