Connect
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Introduce yourself and meet others
Let's talk about living with rheumatoid arthritis.
As moderator of the Autoimmune Diseases group, I noticed that several people were talking about RA, but those conversations were scattered throughout the community. I thought I would start this discussion to bring us all together in one place.
Let’s grab a cup of tea, or beverage of choice, and let's chat. Why not start by introducing yourself?
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Autoimmune Diseases Support Group.
Connect
Yeah, that is true. Sometimes, probably due to wishful thinking, I forget.
There is some hope in that, I think. I have had influenza 3 times during my adult life and when I started getting annual flu shots I'm glad to say I haven't had the flu since.
I'm with you on that also!!!!!!!
Hi, my name is Susan. Thanks for having me in the group. I have RA so badly I have severe mobility issues, cannot hold a pen correctly anymore, severe fatigue and incredible never ending pain ... I feel like my joints and bones are being stabbed at all the time. I don’t sleep most nights from the pain. My RA doc has told me to increase my exercise. I’m a farmer. I possibly cannot do anymore “ exercises “ my pain and fatigue are awful.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHi. I’m Susan. I am 50 years old with severe RA.
There are several sites apparently dedicated to RA and it’s consequences but generally they only represent superficial situations as oppose to potential solutions.
I hope your meeting point will be of greater assistance.
Good luck
John
Hello @jk1, I would like to add my welcome to Connect along with @susandenise and other members. You mentioned dedicated RA websites. The Arthritis Foundation website has some really good information on treatments as well as healthy living for people with RA. Here's a link to their website in case you haven't seen it.
10 Things to Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis: https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/more-about/10-things-to-know-about-ra
Are you able to share any tips on how you manage RA?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionThank you!
I know exactly what it is to live with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I have had it since 2006, officially. I had symptoms since 2001. My life is so complicated, and nothing like I dreamed for myself and my family. My disease has progressed to a very bad place. My hands have nodules on the knuckles with swelling and pain. I have been on biological medications throughout these years, however, I react to these medications which make life very painful. I stopped taking my last medication (Orencia) because I got mouth sores, I am still getting RA nodules in my hands, memory and concentration issues. I am having trouble holding down a job, but not sick enough to qualify for disability. I am afraid of where this disease is going to go!
Yes, I feel exactly like you do. It’s a hard thing.