Rheumatoid arthritis - Are we at a higher risk for the coronavirus?

Hello, I've just come back on here after a bit because I'm a bit worried about the coronavirus. My partner is a 'critical worker' so he's still out and about at work. I've been isolating at home. Since DMARDS have a heavy impact on the immune system does this mean we're more in danger? I'm worried that my partner may bring it back home with him and since he's in good health he may not show the symptoms. Do I have reason to worry or am I just being silly?

@rheumiroomie Hello rheumiroomie, thank you for opening this discussion. Of course you're not just being silly. Many people chronic illnesses are worried. If you haven't seen it yet, we recently published an article focusing on the coronavirus and chronic illness, it may clear up a few of your questions:

Carenity Health Magazine: Coronavirus and Chronic Illness

Hello members, I hope you don't mind that I've tagged you. Do any of you have any advice for rheumiroomie? Have you been in touch with your GP or specialists? 

@Dolphin5005‍ @RoMatt‍‍ @Henrietta1‍ @yikesspikes‍ @Cherie1958‍ @holdaway‍ @AndreaF‍ @Porky55‍ @Sportingjan‍ 

Take care,

Courtney

Hi to all:

I have not been diagnosed as of yet I am supposed to be going for xrays on my shoulders but as my phone isn't working properly I've not been able to make my appointment yet. 

Still having lots of joint problems and fatigie but definatley don't want

the chrono virus at all. 

Hope you all stay Well. 

Dolphin500. 

Coronavirus and Rheumatoid Arthritis – Symptoms, Risk, Treatment, Interaction

When Should You Call a Doctor?
The CDC recommends calling a doctor if you think you’ve been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 or start experiencing symptoms such as a cough, fever, or shortness of breath. Make sure to call before going to a doctor’s office or urgent care clinic, that way the facility can take the proper steps to reduce the possibility of other patients getting infected.

Hydroxychloroquine is a DMARD used to treat RA and now is being researched as a possible drug to treat COVID-19. The CDC reported that Hydroxychloroquine has been given to hospitalized COVID-19 patients in the United States and several other countries.

@RoMatt Hello RoMatt, thank you for your comment. Have you seen our recent article on hydroxychloroquine and the impact that its use for treating COVID-19 is having on RA patients? In it we summarise the results of our survey on the subject and share what our Carenity members are experiencing across the globe. I think you may find it interesting!

Plaquenil as a treatment for COVID-19: What are the consequences for chronic patients?

Feel free to take a look and share you thoughts in the comments below the article!

Take care,

Courtney

hello everyone, I haven't been on in a while. Personally, my GP told me just when this all started to not change anything and everything I've read has said not to change anything unless you have flu-like symptoms. I'm continuing to take my methotrexate, but I'm pushed off my Cimzia injection this week until the next because I've had a few symptoms as has my wife who is also self-isolating with me. We haven't had problems breathing so we haven't been tested, but if things worsen we're on a list to come in for a test. 

Hope everyone is well!

I'm experiencing flare up in left ankle and right hand.   Been resting & sleeping more than usual. 

@Psulsayhi I've also been in a flare up recently. I wonder if the stress of all of this going on is causing it. Trying to stay positive and keep myself busy. 

Wishing you all the best.

Hi I'm on that medication  for my ra I'm so glad to hear it's helpful for this dreaded covid19