Welcome lynda
You have come to an awesome group of folks.
Believe me, someone here will understand what specific thing is going on.
I was able to attend a Christmas party (very rare for me) a week or so ago and I walked in straight as an arrow, no wheekchair, walker, or cane...not even limping.
I felt well enought that day to style my hair and apply a little make-up. Plus, I had put more thought into my attire than usual.
Yes, a very good day for me. Totally out of the norm.
After being seated a couple across from us, social friends, were chatting with us.
The wife looked at me and said to let her see my hands. I did.
She commented they looked fine so how did I have RA.
I simply answered back, "What is happening inside of me NOW is what causes the eventual visual changes in my hands and other joints."
She shut up. Then we had a pleasant rest of the evening.
Oh, honey, if she could have seen me the day before, or at present there would be no questioning.
I am flaring. Which means, hoveround, cane, hobbling, swollen joints, that look of pain in the eyes one can't hide, uncombed hair,etc.
We have to learn to not let other people get to us. Most are ignorent of what RA is. They think of it as a crippling disease without understanding what it is that causes that. They have no idea it is an autoimmune disease or is systematic.
No idea of the symptoms of overwhelming fatigue that can that go along with the pain and stiffness.
Hopefully, you and doc can find a great combo of meds that will work and slow down the progression.
People progress at different rates, so don't let anything I have said scare you.
Just remember you may be in the early stages and that is good.
Hugs
When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and I could say, "I used everything you gave me." ~ Erma Bombeck
bits
"MDJunction has been just an amazing support for me. The people who are on mdj are so nice! Unlike the many other support sites that I have been on. I have made several friends on mdj who are so supportive and so educated about mental illness. Of course non of us are doctors, but we certainly offer each other hugs, opinions, and advice. I have learned a great deal from my friends on mdjunction. I am also encouraging other people who suffer from mental illness to come on to MDJ. It can be a life line." (jenniferdiva)
