My life with Rheumatoid Arthritis
My life with Rheumatoid Arthritis begin rather suddenly . In 2009 I began having knee pain and some swelling, but it would come and go. Then one day I woke up feeling awful , it felt like every joint in my body was swollen, hot and in pain. I was so stiff and sore that I had trouble getting out of bed. I got into to see my family doctor, he immediately indicated he was pretty sure it was RA, and after some blood test he determined it was a definitive diagnosis.
I was refereed to a Rheumatologist who did more blood work that confirmed the RA, and she also told me that I not only tested positive for the RF factor, but the A-CPA, Which indicated an aggressive form of RA, with the least favorable outcome. The rheumatologist found I had some liver disease and lung disease, which delayed any aggressive treatment. I have been on many biologics and finally have found a combination of drugs that are helping. My life has been turned upside down and I struggle daily to maintain relationships, fulfill my job responsibilities and take care of my home, and pay my medical bills.
The most difficult part of this disease is the lack of understanding by others; Family, Coworkers and friends grow tired of hearing complaints and having to listen to the latest medical malady that has shown up. I've learned to keep most things it myself except a few family members and friends.
I feel very lucky that I have good doctors and a job with good health insurance and everyday I get up and give thanks for the positive things in my life and ask for strength for to deal with the areas of struggle in my life.
I can do this!
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