Hi!

I am new to this. I go to the seminar for lap band on July 11th. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and take several medications. My main medication I take every night is predisone. I have heard that I can not take any type of steroid during this process. My rhuematologist dosen't agree with me and WLS. So I didn't even tell him I started the process. I am 29 years old married with twin boys that are 5. I was dx with RA at 19 and have been on long term steroid use for 7 years now. I am ready to have my life back and hoping losing 100 pounds can put my ra in remission.

Thanks!

Kim

Hi! congrats on starting the process! I know every situation is different BUT.... my mother has RA and her rheumatologist is ok with her having the lapband. He said she just has to plan her last tx exactly 4 weeks prior to the surgery date, so she wont be at too much of a risk with infection... she is on Orencia.... my mother does not take steroids though on a regular basis like yourself. It is a same day surgery, only takes about an hour or so, so I cant see you having to change your steoids although they may make you take a stress dose. I think that after you go to the information session, you should see your rhematologist again and tell him that you are serious about this procedure and make him explain to you why he is against it. He should be happy that you want to make the change and weight loss will help with less stress on your already aching joints!

I wish you all the best of luck on your journey!!!!!!