Question: I was diagnosed about 15 years ago with amyloidosis and rheumatoid arthritis. I have a great deal of muscle pain and hardness of the muscle when I am up for some time. The only relief I have found has been Advil gel caps. Do you have any suggestions?


Dr. Hibberd's Answer:

Amyloidosis and rheumatoid arthritis are both treatable diseases. They should be managed by your primary care physician in conjunction with a rheumatologist. Most patients are on suppressive treatment regimens. Please see your doctor for treatment options. Occasionally, treatment is delayed in very early asymptomatic disease, but most patients get better recommendations from their doctor than to simply use Advil. Progression of both of these conditions often produces irreversible side effects, so doctors are fairly aggressive in offering treatment options to patients.