New to it all
Hi everyone! I was just diagnosed with RA last week and am still getting a handle on things. I've read a lot about remission and flares and I'm wondering if you have days where you feel like your old self or if you're battling some level everyday, with some days being worse than others. I'm a 32 year old attorney with two very young boys (20 months & 3 months). I'm really struggling with caring for them (I can't really snap or unzip things, which makes babies hard!). I'm hoping that I can get it all under control soon and just deal with the bad days as they come, but the thought of this being my new normal leaves me feeling pretty bummed.
Also, I'm wondering if, in your experience, your RF and/or anti-CCP levels correlate in any way with your prognosis or level of symptoms. My RF is 185 and my anti-CCP is unquantifiable at just "greater than 250." I'm hoping that doesn't mean I'm in for a more difficult road.
Thanks!
Hi Jbrems~
Sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis - but hopefully having a diagnosis gives you some direction to fight in! Everyone has a very different and unique experiences with RA, but I can certainly relate to yours! I was diagnosed at 25, right in the middle of law school. I now have two kiddos - 3 years and 11 months, both boys! - so I know just how difficult it can be to be a mama with a chronic illness.
Unfortunately it will probably take a bit of time to find your new normal - the trial and error process of finding the right medication can be frustrating. But it IS possible to feel better! It's really important to make sure that you have a good and open relationship with your rheumatologist so that you can work as a team to find the treatment plan that is best for you.
I am one of the contributors/moderators of this site, but I also maintain a personal blog where I've shared my story if you are interested in learning more (http://www.fromthispointforward.com/) I also run a Facebook support group for mamas with chronic illnesses that you might find to be a good resource (https://www.facebook.com/groups/mamasfacingforward/)
Hang in there and please remember that we understand what you are going through and we are here to support you!
~Mariah~ (Site Moderator)
Thanks, Mariah! Sounds like we do have a bit in common. I will definitely check out the blog/FB group. Have a great evening.
