How Did You Feel After the Diagnosis?
At the time of my diagnosis I was a 31 year old mom of 3. The new of being diagnosed with RA was both a relief and devastation at the same time. I was relieved that after 3 years of not knowing what was causing all of the problems in my body. I was also devastated at just what that condition would mean would happen to my...
View MoreDid you suspect you had RA before being diagnosed?
I actually did not suspect RA at all until my family doctor suggested that I see a Rheumatologist, even then I didn't believe that the pain I was having was being caused by RA. I thought I had Carpel Tunnel Syndrome or something else that would soon be taken care of with a possible surgical procedure.
My grandmother had RA and JRA was very active in my family. Given my age at the time of diagnosis I felt that I was too young or too old to have this disease. Even though so many that I knew were affected, there was very little information given to me about the disease growing up. To me it was something old people had or a very unfortunate child.
How did you feel once you learned about your condition?
I experienced many emotions with my diagnosis. I was relieved to finally have a name to put to this pain that had taken over my life for the last 3 years at times making it near impossible to dress myself or work. I also felt a great deal of fear. I had seen my grandmother suffer with this disease and the effect it had on disfiguring your body, she was only able to "treat the symptoms" so to speak with over the counter medication for pain. I admit my vanity was screaming NO this is a mistake. I went through a period of time that I was depressed; I was angry and honestly filled with fear.
What did you and your specialist decide the next steps would be?
I was very fortunate to be connected to a doctor specialist at the UNTHSC in Fort Worth, Texas. At the Health Science Center they were very aware of the most recent study's and medications to fight not only against the symptoms of the disease but against its progression as well.
My specialist asked me if I wanted to treat this disease conservatively or if I wanted to fight with all that I could. I responded that I wanted to fight. At the time I was started on steroid injections each month, Naproxen and Methotrexate. I finally began to once again feel like I was a part of the rest of the world.
I could open lids on jars and bottles again, walk without holding onto walls or other items to keep me steady, dress myself, tie my shoes, brush my hair, cook and clean for my family. I felt confident I would give this beast a battle for sure.
