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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

RA And Neuropathy

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Jonesboro, GA

Hi: Does anyone have neurophathy (numbness) on multiple parts of their body to include their head and face along with the usual arms and legs. I have it on my face which I thought was a bad tooth to find it was not. So depressing. Thanks for any input.

June 17, 2024
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A myRAteam Member

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which is damage to the peripheral nervous system. Here are some key points:

### Causes
- Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibody: Anti-CCP antibodies in RA can attack healthy tissues, leading to neuropathy.
- Nerve Entrapment: Swollen tissues from RA can comp Show Full Answer

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which is damage to the peripheral nervous system. Here are some key points:

### Causes:
- Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibody: Anti-CCP antibodies in RA can attack healthy tissues, leading to neuropathy.
- Nerve Entrapment: Swollen tissues from RA can compress nerves, causing entrapment neuropathies like carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Medications: Some RA medications, like Arava (leflunomide), can cause neuropathy as a side effect.
- Vasculitis: Inflammation of blood vessels in RA can also lead to neuropathy.

### Symptoms:
- Tingling or "pins and needles" sensations
- Muscle weakness or twitching
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Painful sensations, which can be sharp, throbbing, burning, or shooting
- Difficulty walking or moving arms
- Trouble sleeping due to pain
- Decreased coordination and balance

### Treatment:
- RA Treatments: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may help prevent or relieve neuropathy symptoms.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter NSAIDs or stronger painkillers prescribed by a doctor.
- Anti-Seizure Medications: Drugs like gabapentin and pregabalin can help relieve nerve pain.
- Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants can also help manage neuropathic pain.

### Support:
- myRAteam: An online support group where members share experiences and advice about living with RA and neuropathy.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to talk to your doctor to determine the cause and find the right treatment.

June 17, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Yea I was told I may have radiculopathy. I’m scheduled for P/T soon. It’s so overwhelming. Thanks.

June 17, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Hello Corrie yes I do have neuropathy in my face but it was due to having c-spine fusion that caused numbness in my face but I also have grade 1 spondylolisthesis also in the spine with RA.

June 17, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Yes, especially feet. The neuropathy led to bad foot/ankle deformities and Charcot foot. I wasn’t feeling any pain so I continued my 3 mile a day walking regime until things got so bad…so 3 surgeries later I’m still recovering..
Always keep in touch with MD
(My bad)

June 17, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Corrie, I have neuropathy in my feet. I have severe ulnar nerve damage in my arm and hand. I don't have it in my face.

June 17, 2024

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