Got An Answer: My Rheumatoid Diagnosis

Back in the spring when I started having what I can only describe as the worst pain ever, I didn't know how things would pan out for me. I've been through some really dark times (even for me .. *titter* ) I went from full pelt Half Marathon Training (my last run being just over 10 miles) to hobbling out of bed and struggling with the stairs.

I was going to run for Plan International

The worst thing for me was aside from my obviously painful swollen ankles, I looked the same. It didn't seem like my whole body was on fire. The crippling fatigue & worst still the shroud of hopelessness that engulfed me.

I didn't miss one day of work even though some days i'd rather be knocked out than endure one second of the day. I still did the parent thing. The partner thing. The business owner thing.
I now know better because yet again, I pushed through and would end up crashing at weekends.

It all started with a mass in my breast. I wrote about it here & explored more here.

To catch up, read the posts between then and now, I kinda had to journal the experience. Not as much as I thought to be honest.

I had 6 weeks of Prednisolone... That shit is legit. It gave me such a new lease of life. I cannot stress the difference enough. Tapered down and the pains returned so the rheumatologist has seen that its an inflammatory arthritis.

What is Rheumatoid Disease though?

For an in depth definition see here

Here are clues though, although Rheumatoid Disease is more than just about the joints. It affects your entire immune system & organs. There's Fatigue & a sense of a loss of self (if you let it take you)

Difference between Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid - NRAS

Symptoms of RA

Why am I writing this? I wanted to share my story in case it helps someone else. I seem to collect invisible illnesses so my second reason is to share so people around me get a glimpse into why I've changed my lifestyle/trying to change my lifestyle.

Where Am I Now?

I've started my DMARDs (Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drug) Therapy . I'm hoping that I do well on this particular drug. It's slow acting so I won't know for 12 weeks if it's working. For now, I'm managing the pain, Trying to turn my brain off crisis mode & trying to get back to exercising & smashing my goals.

Ps feel free to ask me questions if you have any!

Helpful Links

National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society

Arthritis Research UK

BLOGS I LIKE

RA Warrior

Comments

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