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As you prepare for a new year of managing your autoimmune condition, it’s a good time to revisit how your current treatment is working—and how it’s affecting your day-to-day life. Medications play a key role in managing autoimmune diseases, but they can also come with side effects that impact your comfort and health. Knowing what to expect helps you plan ahead, ask the right questions, and start the year with a stronger care strategy.

Why side effects happen

Most autoimmune medications work by calming the immune system, which is overactive in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or Sjögren’s. But because the immune system affects the whole body, suppressing it can sometimes lead to unwanted effects. These side effects vary depending on the type of medication, dosage, and your individual response.

Common medication types and what to expect

• NSAIDs: These help reduce pain and inflammation but can irritate the stomach lining or raise blood pressure.
• DMARDs (like methotrexate): May cause fatigue, nausea, or liver irritation. Regular blood tests are often needed.
• Biologics: Can increase the risk of infections and sometimes cause skin reactions at the injection site.
• Corticosteroids: Useful for flares, but long-term use may lead to weight gain, mood swings, or bone loss.

How to stay ahead of side effects in the new year

• Keep a symptom journal: Track how you feel after taking medications to spot patterns.
• Schedule your labs: Routine testing helps catch early signs of liver or immune system changes.
• Ask questions: Talk with your provider about risks and alternatives if something doesn’t feel right.
• Support your body: Get enough rest, stay hydrated, and eat in a way that supports your energy and digestion.

When to call your doctor

If you experience side effects that interfere with sleep, appetite, mood, or daily activity, it’s time to check in. Fever, rashes, or new pain should also be reported right away. Your rheumatology team can help adjust your treatment plan to reduce side effects while still protecting your joints and organs from inflammation.

Start the year strong with support from AMS Rheumatology

At Amarillo Medical Specialists Rheumatology, we believe your treatment should be effective and tolerable. If side effects are making life harder, it doesn’t mean you have to choose between relief and comfort. Our team works with you to find the right balance—one that supports your health and fits your lifestyle in the year ahead.

Heading into a new year is the perfect time to check in, ask questions, and take steps that make your treatment plan work better for you. You deserve to feel empowered, not overwhelmed, as you move forward.

Your Symptoms Matter

If you’re ready to take the next step toward clarity and relief, the team at AMS Rheumatology in Amarillo is here to walk with you, providing compassionate care, expert guidance, and personalized treatment plans designed to help you regain control, reduce discomfort, and improve your quality of life.