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Mid-diagnosis and terrified... Is RA always as bad as the internet would have me think ?

Posted , 3 users are following.

IndieKid
IndieKid

I've been having joint pain for some months and have stopped all exercise except walking.

Despite having another auto-immune condition that can cause inflammatory arthritis the consultant jumped on RA as a diagnosis based on family history.

I have an irrational fear of RA so am hoping for any other diagnosis, even if the prognosis and drugs are the same. Stupid I know.

I am actually not that bad at the moment, I can work (though I do swear at my colleagues more and go for the odd cry in the toilets). Everything I read about RA sounds terrifying, it's constantly described as "disabiling". The diagnosis seems worse than the disease!

Am I destined to end up bed bound like my relatives were in the 80's or is it just that all the websites are (quite rightly) tailored to those with the worst symptoms?

I guess I'm just hoping there are people out there with RA and careers, kids, lives etc?

Anyone got any good news?

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • John1129
    John1129 IndieKid

    Posted

    Hello I've been diagnosed for 12 years now RA I am now 65.

    I think I have it pretty mild apart from a BAD flare up in my case 2 to 3 times a year, these flares are in my case terribly painful and last for one night only every joint, then start to subside.

    I think everyone has similaritys and diferences, My cousin has RA and she has it a lot worse than me so every case is different.

    I know I am not a serious case as I only take 7.5mg Methotrexate.

    So no everyone with RA won't end up in a bad way (I go to the gym 3 times a week)

    • IndieKid
      IndieKid John1129

      Posted

      Thank you, that's very reassuring.

      When I'm in a good mood, my symptoms don't bother me much, so anything that gives me permission to be optimistic is great news.

      Thank you

       

  • Lee-Anne.
    Lee-Anne. IndieKid

    Posted

    Hi, please try not to worry, I'm 33, I have 2 young children, I have a career in IT, I swim twice a week and lead a fairly active lifestyle. I also have RA. Managing RA relies a lot on knowing your limits, listening to your body and taking all your medication. The first 12 months after diagnosis  can be bumpy whilst they sort out your medication, a positive attitude helps a lot xx
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