I had lung nodules, a cough, and shortness of breath before I knew I had RA - so before any meds for RA. So I think the nodules (mine at least) are a result of the disease rather than medication. Have been using inhaled steroids for some time but I don't see a lot of difference.

I have nodules... the pulmonologist called it bronchiectasis with pulmonary infiltrates.... I had a CT scan which revealed all of this... they are waiting until June to do another CT scan to compare the results.... I was told this was due to RA and a lowered immune system. And, a stronger RA medication, which might help my symptoms of RA... would also lower my immune system further... thus causing a greater ability for infection in my lungs. WHAT a VICIOUS circle :(

Long story short , I’ve had a really bad dry cough, bronchospasm, and lung nodules. My pulmonologist believes this is all a side effect of the leflunomide I’m on- not RA. He and my Rheumatologist agreed that I should stop the leflunomide, and he’s put me on inhaled steroids. He said it’s all reversible at this point. I’m 4 weeks out and doing much better. I go back in 6 weeks to follow up and have another chest CT. He thinks we are on the right track, but if CT shows inflammation or nodule growth, I’ll have to get a biopsy.

ask your rheumy about methotrexate if you're not already on it.