Priya Patel Priya Patel Asked 9 months ago

Does rheumatoid arthritis cause weight gain?

Ever since my RA diagnosis a couple of years ago, I've noticed I've put on some weight, even though my diet hasn't changed much. My friend also has RA and she complains about the same. Is weight gain a common side effect of rheumatoid arthritis or its treatment?

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Savitri Sharma Savitri Sharma Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago
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Beta, the disease itself doesn't make you heavy, but the steroid medicines doctors give can cause water retention and weight gain. Drink lukewarm water with a little ginger in the morning, but never stop your doctor's medicines on your own.

Kavita Rao Kavita Rao Joined Apr 2026 7 months ago

I totally get it, dealing with painful joints is hard enough, and gaining weight on top of that feels so unfair. Often it is the lack of mobility combined with steroids that causes this. Please don't be too hard on yourself, your body is fighting a tough battle.

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Meera Sen Meera Sen Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

I completely understand the anxiety of watching the scale go up when you are already in so much pain. It made me feel so helpless and stressed. Discussing this worry openly with my doctor helped, as they adjusted my treatment to reduce the bloating.

Anuj Patel Anuj Patel Joined May 2026 5 months ago

I have put on almost 5 kgs in the last two months since starting my new RA pills, and my face looks so puffy. Is anyone else facing this exact same issue with their treatment? I am feeling really down about it.

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Rajesh Malhotra Rajesh Malhotra Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

I gained about 8 kgs after starting my RA treatment due to heavy steroid doses. The only realistic way to counter this is strict portion control and doing low-impact exercises like swimming or walking. Talk to your doctor about tapering the steroids if your inflammation is under control.

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