Arthritis Forum - Rheumatoid arthritis and enlarged lymph nodes

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Q: Rheumatoid arthritis and enlarged lymph nodes

asked by: DoctorQuestion on May 10th, 2008

Is there any indication of RA being linked to HSV? Since my diagnosis I've been having frequent outbreaks (which were previously almost non-existent). Could there be a link between RA and my chronically enlarged lymph nodes in my neck? Also, is there anything I should be doing while I wait to see Dr (ie: if it 'hurts' should I stop doing things that may be stressing joints) or is the process of erosion just going to take it's course, regardless of what I do?

Replies(1)

Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD

replied on May 15th, 2008

Arthritis Answer A4114

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder. HSV outbreaks are not connected with the presence of rheumatoid arthritis for now because you don’t use any immunosuppressive therapy.

If there are enlarged lymph nodes on the neck for more than 2 years, a biopsy is needed to find out why those lymph nodes are enlarged. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause enlarged lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy).

Therapy of RA should be recommended and monitored by a rheumatologist. Therapy of RA includes: anti-inflamatory drugs (corticosteroids and NSAID), disease-modifying drugs, physical therapy, surgery, etc. A rheumatologist needs to prescribe the proper therapy. You can ask your doctor about taking certain painkillers like Motrin.

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