As I was reading I ran across an article about Alternative Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis a few thoughts ran through my mind. After being in Korea during my time in the military I am not against alternative medicine.  However, it is a dangerous thing when you have Rheumatoid Arthritis to change or add to your treatment without discussing this with your Rheumatologist.  Not doing this could lead to severe issues. Example: You are being treated for RA and you decide to try the Gin Soaked Raisins. Your Rheumatologist has put you on Methotraxate and Enbrel along with an NSAID for pain and swelling, and when he did you told him you don’t use alcohol.  Now you go and without discussing alternative treatment you start doing the Gin Soaked raisins.  You have an adverse reaction and end up in the ER because the information you gave your Rheumy was incorrect and the medication dosages were decided on when you told him you don’t use any alcohol caused a reaction and you end with further problems.

Again I am not against alternative medicine! I just think not discussing it with your Rheumatologist since RA is a chronic autoimmune disease is reckless and not in the best interest for your health and overall being.  Be sure when you decide to try something, even as simple as a herb or vitamin supplement, talk it over with your doctor so you don’t end up in the ER or worse.  Many don’t heed such warnings and just follow internet and ‘old wife’s tales’ and sadly don’t make it to their next birthday. So please if you do anything for your family for Christmas, don’t start any treatment without first talking it over with your doctor if you are being treated for RA.