Depression

[Guest guest]

Hi! I am soooo sorry you are going through a tough time.I too was just

hit with this stuff about 3 months ago.I have not been able to see a RA

doctor yet so I am only on pain pills and muscle relaxers whitch are no

help when I am in my " flare " .That's what it sounds like you are

having.A great Big Nasty Yucky Flare!!!Mine lasted for about 8

weeks.The last 4 being the worst(Couldn't get out of bed)I have been

out of it for about 2 weeks and am feeling the pain decrease quite a

bit and my energy has increased some.I still have alot of daily pain

but the inflamation is way down and that helps the pain.Please hang in

there !!!!!you will feel better!! I know this must me much harder for a

man to go through.My son is being tested in Nov.He is just 24 but has

always had joint pain and fatuige.I think the most important thing is

learning to pace yourself and pain management.Hot baths and rest helps

me the most.I am able to now work pretty hard from about 10 to 3 each

day.I have my own business so that helps.Maybe that is something you

could do for work(internet business or some other kind that you could

work your'e own hours).This is a wonderfull place to get ideas and

encouragement,as I'm sure you have already found that out.Take care and

I hope you get relief soon.My thoughts and prayers are with you.-Tammy-

[Guest guest]

Hi! I am soooo sorry you are going through a tough time.I too was just

hit with this stuff about 3 months ago.I have not been able to see a RA

doctor yet so I am only on pain pills and muscle relaxers whitch are no

help when I am in my " flare " .That's what it sounds like you are

having.A great Big Nasty Yucky Flare!!!Mine lasted for about 8

weeks.The last 4 being the worst(Couldn't get out of bed)I have been

out of it for about 2 weeks and am feeling the pain decrease quite a

bit and my energy has increased some.I still have alot of daily pain

but the inflamation is way down and that helps the pain.Please hang in

there !!!!!you will feel better!! I know this must me much harder for a

man to go through.My son is being tested in Nov.He is just 24 but has

always had joint pain and fatuige.I think the most important thing is

learning to pace yourself and pain management.Hot baths and rest helps

me the most.I am able to now work pretty hard from about 10 to 3 each

day.I have my own business so that helps.Maybe that is something you

could do for work(internet business or some other kind that you could

work your'e own hours).This is a wonderfull place to get ideas and

encouragement,as I'm sure you have already found that out.Take care and

I hope you get relief soon.My thoughts and prayers are with you.-Tammy-

[Guest guest]

Hi Again! I forgot to say that I take Effexor XR too. That helps alot

with depression.It makes your'e stoumach upset for awile(about a week)

but I was in so much other pain I hardly noticed it.My husband takes it

also to help with his depression from seeing me going through such pain

and missing work.It took an act on congress to get him to satrt it but

now he is glad he did.He said it makes him feel more normal and more

able to handle the daily stress of working (and putting up with

me!).Good Luck!-Tammy-

[Guest guest]

Hi Again! I forgot to say that I take Effexor XR too. That helps alot

with depression.It makes your'e stoumach upset for awile(about a week)

but I was in so much other pain I hardly noticed it.My husband takes it

also to help with his depression from seeing me going through such pain

and missing work.It took an act on congress to get him to satrt it but

now he is glad he did.He said it makes him feel more normal and more

able to handle the daily stress of working (and putting up with

me!).Good Luck!-Tammy-

[Guest guest]

Hi, I am a 36 year old female with RA . I was diagnosed when I was 14 years old

could you imagine that. Here I'm about to enter what is supposed to be the best

years of my life. Instead I let this disease rob me of those years. I end up

droping out of school half way through my freshman year of high school, end up

pregnant at 16, married and 2 kids by the time I was 20. Now here I am a breast

reduction to ease the pain wrong!, a hip replacement and an ankle fussed okay I

guess. Still here I am letting this damn disease have the best of me. My kids

are grown and and on there own in school that is, I guess I did somthing right.

Anyways I guess what I'm trying to say is that life goes on, it might suck

alittle ok alot but it goes on so you can sit back and let this damn disease

ruin your golden years or get up and fight back. I'm sure that you worked very

hard your whole life so that you can enjoy these years . So be a man, be stong

and kick these damn disease in the ASS and show it

who's BOSS!

I'll try if you try.

groggygimp <groggygimp@...> wrote:hi

i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went to

the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i had

n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big deal.

i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone, hydroxychloroquin,

naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent and

bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come to

wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss of

work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

contemplating other ways out at this point.

[Guest guest]

Hi, I am a 36 year old female with RA . I was diagnosed when I was 14 years old

could you imagine that. Here I'm about to enter what is supposed to be the best

years of my life. Instead I let this disease rob me of those years. I end up

droping out of school half way through my freshman year of high school, end up

pregnant at 16, married and 2 kids by the time I was 20. Now here I am a breast

reduction to ease the pain wrong!, a hip replacement and an ankle fussed okay I

guess. Still here I am letting this damn disease have the best of me. My kids

are grown and and on there own in school that is, I guess I did somthing right.

Anyways I guess what I'm trying to say is that life goes on, it might suck

alittle ok alot but it goes on so you can sit back and let this damn disease

ruin your golden years or get up and fight back. I'm sure that you worked very

hard your whole life so that you can enjoy these years . So be a man, be stong

and kick these damn disease in the ASS and show it

who's BOSS!

I'll try if you try.

groggygimp <groggygimp@...> wrote:hi

i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went to

the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i had

n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big deal.

i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone, hydroxychloroquin,

naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent and

bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come to

wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss of

work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

contemplating other ways out at this point.

[Guest guest]

I am so sorry that you are suffering. Are there any churches or

groups in your area that could give you financial assistance? I know

how hard it is to ask for help when you have been independent all

your life; I raised four kids on my own. What line of work are you in-

perhaps there arestate agencies that would help you train for a more

arthritis-friendly career. My sis is 58 and has just been dx'ed with

RA- I was in my 30's. Please know that there are better days ahead,

when they get the right meds going and your body gets used to them,.

it will help a lot. Are they giving you any pain meds, or something

to help you sleep? My depression gets much worse when I can't

sleep... most of us here are on multiple meds, we can relate to what

you are going through. Hang in there, I will be praying for you.

God bless and keep you.

Jane

--- In , " groggygimp " <groggygimp@y...>

wrote:

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went

to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i

had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big

deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone,

hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent

and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come

to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss

of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

[Guest guest]

I am so sorry that you are suffering. Are there any churches or

groups in your area that could give you financial assistance? I know

how hard it is to ask for help when you have been independent all

your life; I raised four kids on my own. What line of work are you in-

perhaps there arestate agencies that would help you train for a more

arthritis-friendly career. My sis is 58 and has just been dx'ed with

RA- I was in my 30's. Please know that there are better days ahead,

when they get the right meds going and your body gets used to them,.

it will help a lot. Are they giving you any pain meds, or something

to help you sleep? My depression gets much worse when I can't

sleep... most of us here are on multiple meds, we can relate to what

you are going through. Hang in there, I will be praying for you.

God bless and keep you.

Jane

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went

to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i

had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big

deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone,

hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent

and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come

to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss

of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

[Guest guest]

I just wanted add that I'm sorry that you're going to such a hard time. And yes

the financial issues can be completely overwhelming.

To echo others have said....please consider if short-term disability is an

option for you. (It can carry you over until you sort things out or pain/RA meds

kick in). Does you company have FMLA (that can be other way to help you

out)....I'm also not sure what state you're in but your office of vocational

rehab may be of help (sometimes its through the Unemployment Office). Some

states have extremely user friendly rules and vocational rehab can help advocate

for folks like us that want to/need to work but need some time off of special

accomdations to do so. They can help advocate for you with employers, bill

collectors, landlords.

The other thing that I've come to figure out is that you have to 'swallow your

pride' and let everyone know how bad things are. Your utlitiy company (with a

letter from your doctor verifying your diagnosis) can put you on their 'medical

necessity list' and they won't turn off your power/gas if you have trouble

making payments. Even your car company can give you a temporary hardship

'deferment'/payment reduction if you have a doctor's note. Many phone companies

have provision for people with economic challenges, most landlords will work

with you if you give them a plan, and again Vic rehab can help you navigate

through all these different systems. Another good resource can be your

local/statewide Arthritis foundation group.

I used to let money stuff overwhelm me. I confess there are still times I feel

so down because of how this disease has me back financially. I feel like/have

felt like I'll never be able to make ends meet again. But when I remember the

important stuff (family, friends, the good days, the hope that things will get

better)....it helps me remember it's only money. (and I'm not going to let money

stress be the death of me. It's not worth it. In the grand scheme of things it's

all 'small stuff.')

Finally, try not to do all by yourself. See who can help you. Perhaps your HR

person at your job, someone from your church or a community group or from a

social service agency. Maybe it's a good friend, a spouse, an ex, an adult

child.....rally the troops. If someone knows what you need most do try to help.

(even if they do it not exactly the way we want it...)

Wishing you brighter days ahead. (things will get better).....

(IL)

[Guest guest]

I just wanted add that I'm sorry that you're going to such a hard time. And yes

the financial issues can be completely overwhelming.

To echo others have said....please consider if short-term disability is an

option for you. (It can carry you over until you sort things out or pain/RA meds

kick in). Does you company have FMLA (that can be other way to help you

out)....I'm also not sure what state you're in but your office of vocational

rehab may be of help (sometimes its through the Unemployment Office). Some

states have extremely user friendly rules and vocational rehab can help advocate

for folks like us that want to/need to work but need some time off of special

accomdations to do so. They can help advocate for you with employers, bill

collectors, landlords.

The other thing that I've come to figure out is that you have to 'swallow your

pride' and let everyone know how bad things are. Your utlitiy company (with a

letter from your doctor verifying your diagnosis) can put you on their 'medical

necessity list' and they won't turn off your power/gas if you have trouble

making payments. Even your car company can give you a temporary hardship

'deferment'/payment reduction if you have a doctor's note. Many phone companies

have provision for people with economic challenges, most landlords will work

with you if you give them a plan, and again Vic rehab can help you navigate

through all these different systems. Another good resource can be your

local/statewide Arthritis foundation group.

I used to let money stuff overwhelm me. I confess there are still times I feel

so down because of how this disease has me back financially. I feel like/have

felt like I'll never be able to make ends meet again. But when I remember the

important stuff (family, friends, the good days, the hope that things will get

better)....it helps me remember it's only money. (and I'm not going to let money

stress be the death of me. It's not worth it. In the grand scheme of things it's

all 'small stuff.')

Finally, try not to do all by yourself. See who can help you. Perhaps your HR

person at your job, someone from your church or a community group or from a

social service agency. Maybe it's a good friend, a spouse, an ex, an adult

child.....rally the troops. If someone knows what you need most do try to help.

(even if they do it not exactly the way we want it...)

Wishing you brighter days ahead. (things will get better).....

(IL)

[Guest guest]

hi karen

thanks for your support and suggestions. ironically i'm employed as a care giver

to an elderly couple, after 8 yrs. working with them i've become very attached,

and comitted to see them to the end. they're both octagenarians, not sure which

of us is most lame. being privately employed limits my ability to pursue gov't.

means to supplement my income, since my career has been sporadic, mostly in

theatre till my wife died and i was a single parent, now my kids are grown, and

i'm paying for unwise employment decisions i made in desparation.

thanks again.

lee

C Simms <kcrawfords@...> wrote:

I just wanted add that I'm sorry that you're going to such a hard time. And yes

the financial issues can be completely overwhelming.

To echo others have said....please consider if short-term disability is an

option for you. (It can carry you over until you sort things out or pain/RA meds

kick in). Does you company have FMLA (that can be other way to help you

out)....I'm also not sure what state you're in but your office of vocational

rehab may be of help (sometimes its through the Unemployment Office). Some

states have extremely user friendly rules and vocational rehab can help advocate

for folks like us that want to/need to work but need some time off of special

accomdations to do so. They can help advocate for you with employers, bill

collectors, landlords.

The other thing that I've come to figure out is that you have to 'swallow your

pride' and let everyone know how bad things are. Your utlitiy company (with a

letter from your doctor verifying your diagnosis) can put you on their 'medical

necessity list' and they won't turn off your power/gas if you have trouble

making payments. Even your car company can give you a temporary hardship

'deferment'/payment reduction if you have a doctor's note. Many phone companies

have provision for people with economic challenges, most landlords will work

with you if you give them a plan, and again Vic rehab can help you navigate

through all these different systems. Another good resource can be your

local/statewide Arthritis foundation group.

I used to let money stuff overwhelm me. I confess there are still times I feel

so down because of how this disease has me back financially. I feel like/have

felt like I'll never be able to make ends meet again. But when I remember the

important stuff (family, friends, the good days, the hope that things will get

better)....it helps me remember it's only money. (and I'm not going to let money

stress be the death of me. It's not worth it. In the grand scheme of things it's

all 'small stuff.')

Finally, try not to do all by yourself. See who can help you. Perhaps your HR

person at your job, someone from your church or a community group or from a

social service agency. Maybe it's a good friend, a spouse, an ex, an adult

child.....rally the troops. If someone knows what you need most do try to help.

(even if they do it not exactly the way we want it...)

Wishing you brighter days ahead. (things will get better).....

(IL)

[Guest guest]

hi karen

thanks for your support and suggestions. ironically i'm employed as a care giver

to an elderly couple, after 8 yrs. working with them i've become very attached,

and comitted to see them to the end. they're both octagenarians, not sure which

of us is most lame. being privately employed limits my ability to pursue gov't.

means to supplement my income, since my career has been sporadic, mostly in

theatre till my wife died and i was a single parent, now my kids are grown, and

i'm paying for unwise employment decisions i made in desparation.

thanks again.

lee

C Simms <kcrawfords@...> wrote:

I just wanted add that I'm sorry that you're going to such a hard time. And yes

the financial issues can be completely overwhelming.

To echo others have said....please consider if short-term disability is an

option for you. (It can carry you over until you sort things out or pain/RA meds

kick in). Does you company have FMLA (that can be other way to help you

out)....I'm also not sure what state you're in but your office of vocational

rehab may be of help (sometimes its through the Unemployment Office). Some

states have extremely user friendly rules and vocational rehab can help advocate

for folks like us that want to/need to work but need some time off of special

accomdations to do so. They can help advocate for you with employers, bill

collectors, landlords.

The other thing that I've come to figure out is that you have to 'swallow your

pride' and let everyone know how bad things are. Your utlitiy company (with a

letter from your doctor verifying your diagnosis) can put you on their 'medical

necessity list' and they won't turn off your power/gas if you have trouble

making payments. Even your car company can give you a temporary hardship

'deferment'/payment reduction if you have a doctor's note. Many phone companies

have provision for people with economic challenges, most landlords will work

with you if you give them a plan, and again Vic rehab can help you navigate

through all these different systems. Another good resource can be your

local/statewide Arthritis foundation group.

I used to let money stuff overwhelm me. I confess there are still times I feel

so down because of how this disease has me back financially. I feel like/have

felt like I'll never be able to make ends meet again. But when I remember the

important stuff (family, friends, the good days, the hope that things will get

better)....it helps me remember it's only money. (and I'm not going to let money

stress be the death of me. It's not worth it. In the grand scheme of things it's

all 'small stuff.')

Finally, try not to do all by yourself. See who can help you. Perhaps your HR

person at your job, someone from your church or a community group or from a

social service agency. Maybe it's a good friend, a spouse, an ex, an adult

child.....rally the troops. If someone knows what you need most do try to help.

(even if they do it not exactly the way we want it...)

Wishing you brighter days ahead. (things will get better).....

(IL)

[Guest guest]

thanks for your suggestions. meds include mtx, prednisone, hydrochloroquine,

naproxin, folic acid, a stomach protector and humira. worst affects are sleep

deprivation, muscle cramps in toes, legs and hands. although i can walk, i use a

cane now, and i don't understand what people mean by flare-ups? unless i go back

to being unable to walk again, i'm in constant flare, and pain, i guess that i

can work at all is great, it just takes me a very long time to accomplish what

took only minutes. i'm getting accustomed to the pain, and learning to

compensate. the money probs seem to be here to stay, and the future still looks

bleak.

lee

JANE <janeatregis@...> wrote:

I am so sorry that you are suffering. Are there any churches or

groups in your area that could give you financial assistance? I know

how hard it is to ask for help when you have been independent all

your life; I raised four kids on my own. What line of work are you in-

perhaps there arestate agencies that would help you train for a more

arthritis-friendly career. My sis is 58 and has just been dx'ed with

RA- I was in my 30's. Please know that there are better days ahead,

when they get the right meds going and your body gets used to them,.

it will help a lot. Are they giving you any pain meds, or something

to help you sleep? My depression gets much worse when I can't

sleep... most of us here are on multiple meds, we can relate to what

you are going through. Hang in there, I will be praying for you.

God bless and keep you.

Jane

--- In , " groggygimp " <groggygimp@y...>

wrote:

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went

to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i

had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big

deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone,

hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent

and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come

to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss

of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

[Guest guest]

thanks for your suggestions. meds include mtx, prednisone, hydrochloroquine,

naproxin, folic acid, a stomach protector and humira. worst affects are sleep

deprivation, muscle cramps in toes, legs and hands. although i can walk, i use a

cane now, and i don't understand what people mean by flare-ups? unless i go back

to being unable to walk again, i'm in constant flare, and pain, i guess that i

can work at all is great, it just takes me a very long time to accomplish what

took only minutes. i'm getting accustomed to the pain, and learning to

compensate. the money probs seem to be here to stay, and the future still looks

bleak.

lee

JANE <janeatregis@...> wrote:

I am so sorry that you are suffering. Are there any churches or

groups in your area that could give you financial assistance? I know

how hard it is to ask for help when you have been independent all

your life; I raised four kids on my own. What line of work are you in-

perhaps there arestate agencies that would help you train for a more

arthritis-friendly career. My sis is 58 and has just been dx'ed with

RA- I was in my 30's. Please know that there are better days ahead,

when they get the right meds going and your body gets used to them,.

it will help a lot. Are they giving you any pain meds, or something

to help you sleep? My depression gets much worse when I can't

sleep... most of us here are on multiple meds, we can relate to what

you are going through. Hang in there, I will be praying for you.

God bless and keep you.

Jane

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went

to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i

had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big

deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone,

hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent

and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come

to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss

of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

[Guest guest]

thanks, i'll look into it.

clarabell4ever2000 <clarabell4ever2000@...> wrote:Hi Again! I forgot to

say that I take Effexor XR too. That helps alot

with depression.It makes your'e stoumach upset for awile(about a week)

but I was in so much other pain I hardly noticed it.My husband takes it

also to help with his depression from seeing me going through such pain

and missing work.It took an act on congress to get him to satrt it but

now he is glad he did.He said it makes him feel more normal and more

able to handle the daily stress of working (and putting up with

me!).Good Luck!-Tammy-

[Guest guest]

thanks, i'll look into it.

clarabell4ever2000 <clarabell4ever2000@...> wrote:Hi Again! I forgot to

say that I take Effexor XR too. That helps alot

with depression.It makes your'e stoumach upset for awile(about a week)

but I was in so much other pain I hardly noticed it.My husband takes it

also to help with his depression from seeing me going through such pain

and missing work.It took an act on congress to get him to satrt it but

now he is glad he did.He said it makes him feel more normal and more

able to handle the daily stress of working (and putting up with

me!).Good Luck!-Tammy-

[Guest guest]

thanks for your reply, my " flare " never ended as far as i know, accept i am now

able to walk, whereas when hopitalized it was nearly impossible. i find that

unlike others, my a.m.'s seem much better than mid-later day, when my hips start

to give out, smaller joints seem bad all day. shoulder, knees, hips worse as

day progresses. hoping that the hum;ira helps out. hope you continue to feel

better.

lee

clarabell4ever2000 <clarabell4ever2000@...> wrote:

Hi! I am soooo sorry you are going through a tough time.I too was just

hit with this stuff about 3 months ago.I have not been able to see a RA

doctor yet so I am only on pain pills and muscle relaxers whitch are no

help when I am in my " flare " .That's what it sounds like you are

having.A great Big Nasty Yucky Flare!!!Mine lasted for about 8

weeks.The last 4 being the worst(Couldn't get out of bed)I have been

out of it for about 2 weeks and am feeling the pain decrease quite a

bit and my energy has increased some.I still have alot of daily pain

but the inflamation is way down and that helps the pain.Please hang in

there !!!!!you will feel better!! I know this must me much harder for a

man to go through.My son is being tested in Nov.He is just 24 but has

always had joint pain and fatuige.I think the most important thing is

learning to pace yourself and pain management.Hot baths and rest helps

me the most.I am able to now work pretty hard from about 10 to 3 each

day.I have my own business so that helps.Maybe that is something you

could do for work(internet business or some other kind that you could

work your'e own hours).This is a wonderfull place to get ideas and

encouragement,as I'm sure you have already found that out.Take care and

I hope you get relief soon.My thoughts and prayers are with you.-Tammy-

[Guest guest]

thanks for your reply, my " flare " never ended as far as i know, accept i am now

able to walk, whereas when hopitalized it was nearly impossible. i find that

unlike others, my a.m.'s seem much better than mid-later day, when my hips start

to give out, smaller joints seem bad all day. shoulder, knees, hips worse as

day progresses. hoping that the hum;ira helps out. hope you continue to feel

better.

lee

clarabell4ever2000 <clarabell4ever2000@...> wrote:

Hi! I am soooo sorry you are going through a tough time.I too was just

hit with this stuff about 3 months ago.I have not been able to see a RA

doctor yet so I am only on pain pills and muscle relaxers whitch are no

help when I am in my " flare " .That's what it sounds like you are

having.A great Big Nasty Yucky Flare!!!Mine lasted for about 8

weeks.The last 4 being the worst(Couldn't get out of bed)I have been

out of it for about 2 weeks and am feeling the pain decrease quite a

bit and my energy has increased some.I still have alot of daily pain

but the inflamation is way down and that helps the pain.Please hang in

there !!!!!you will feel better!! I know this must me much harder for a

man to go through.My son is being tested in Nov.He is just 24 but has

always had joint pain and fatuige.I think the most important thing is

learning to pace yourself and pain management.Hot baths and rest helps

me the most.I am able to now work pretty hard from about 10 to 3 each

day.I have my own business so that helps.Maybe that is something you

could do for work(internet business or some other kind that you could

work your'e own hours).This is a wonderfull place to get ideas and

encouragement,as I'm sure you have already found that out.Take care and

I hope you get relief soon.My thoughts and prayers are with you.-Tammy-

[Guest guest]

thanks, i'm trying to acclimate myself to this disease, and figure what my

future has in store, i'm sure once i get a few days of less pain, i'll become

more with it.

snowdrift52003 <snowdrift52003@...> wrote:Give it more time before you

come to conclusions about the future.

Three months is not long to have been on meds. As you know, some are

slow to take effect, and adjustments in dosage may need to be made.

As hard as it might be, do explore all of your options for assistance.

You are no less a man for making use of resources that will ease some

of the stress. It's good common sense.

Sierra

--- In , " groggygimp " <groggygimp@y...>

wrote:

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went

to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i

had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big

deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone,

hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent

and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come

to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss

of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

[Guest guest]

thanks, i'm trying to acclimate myself to this disease, and figure what my

future has in store, i'm sure once i get a few days of less pain, i'll become

more with it.

snowdrift52003 <snowdrift52003@...> wrote:Give it more time before you

come to conclusions about the future.

Three months is not long to have been on meds. As you know, some are

slow to take effect, and adjustments in dosage may need to be made.

As hard as it might be, do explore all of your options for assistance.

You are no less a man for making use of resources that will ease some

of the stress. It's good common sense.

Sierra

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went

to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i

had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big

deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone,

hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent

and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come

to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss

of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

[Guest guest]

thanks for your suggestion, i'll bring it up to my rheum..

nostorystory <nostorystory@...> wrote:Hi groggygimp,

I'm so sorry to hear about your situation. I am on the fly at the

moment, but wanted to say that anti-depressants are a really good

option. I've had depression on and off in my life, and though I

prefer to be off anti-depressant medication they can be fantastic at

critical times, and this sounds like one. The one thing I have

learned about depression is that it colors my outlook, and it's best

not to make decisions while depressed. Also, anti-depressants help

raise your pain threshhold. There's no shame in taking them. We all

need all the help we can get at such trying times in life. Lots of

love to you.

Molly

On Oct 1, 2005, at 1:20 PM, groggygimp wrote:

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big

> deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone, hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

thanks for your suggestion, i'll bring it up to my rheum..

nostorystory <nostorystory@...> wrote:Hi groggygimp,

I'm so sorry to hear about your situation. I am on the fly at the

moment, but wanted to say that anti-depressants are a really good

option. I've had depression on and off in my life, and though I

prefer to be off anti-depressant medication they can be fantastic at

critical times, and this sounds like one. The one thing I have

learned about depression is that it colors my outlook, and it's best

not to make decisions while depressed. Also, anti-depressants help

raise your pain threshhold. There's no shame in taking them. We all

need all the help we can get at such trying times in life. Lots of

love to you.

Molly

On Oct 1, 2005, at 1:20 PM, groggygimp wrote:

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with pain and went to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the diagnosis, since i had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought arthritis was no big

> deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone, hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into arrears in rent and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all emasculating. i've come to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality of life and loss of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

thanks linda

i'm feeling better emotionally now, but see no real way out of ;my situation.

the pain makes it more difficult. your suggestions and feed-back is a real

support. thanks.

Boyd <lindagb52@...> wrote:

Hi, I'm sorry that you are having such a rough time

of it both physically and emotionally. Yes this is a

terrible disease but there is hope. Even though there

is no cure with the right therapy and time, things do

improve for most of us. You have just started a

journey that many of us have been on for varying

lenghts of time and degrees of severity. Here at this

sight you will find a lot of friends and information

to ease the load. You are not alone and things will

improve. We share medical information and what works

for one person may not work for the next. There are

many different treatment options available and it

takes time to find the right combination that helps

our individual situations. We learn how to cope with

the successes and the disappointments. If you are not

seeing a good rheumatologist please do so ASAP. Let

him know how and what you are felling both physically

and emotionally. If he doens't listen find another Dr

who will. (My first rheumatologist visit was my last

with that doc) I now have a great one. Also there are

support groups in many areas in addition to this one.

Educate yourself about the disease and treatments and

do not be afraid to take control of your life and

disease. Do not be afraid to make suggestions to your

Dr. about your care. They do not always give us all

the options available. This disease throws many of us

for a loop when we first become ill. Pain, lack of

sleep, job worries, how we will take care of ourselves

and our families can be totally overwhelming. Many

people (including families and work associaties) do

not understand RA and how it effects us. Be patient

with yourself. Ask for help when you need it-Dr.s,

family , work associates, and church. Many times we

never know how wonderful people are until we give them

the opportunity. Praying for you and your situation.

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms

> came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with

> pain and went to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the

> diagnosis, since i had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the

> disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought

> arthritis was no big deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has

> improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone,

> hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it

> seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the

> symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer

> from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to

> come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into

> arrears in rent and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all

> emasculating. i've come to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality

> of life and loss of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is

> not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

______________________________________________________

for Good

Donate to the Hurricane Katrina relief effort.

http://store./redcross-donate3/

[Guest guest]

thanks linda

i'm feeling better emotionally now, but see no real way out of ;my situation.

the pain makes it more difficult. your suggestions and feed-back is a real

support. thanks.

Boyd <lindagb52@...> wrote:

Hi, I'm sorry that you are having such a rough time

of it both physically and emotionally. Yes this is a

terrible disease but there is hope. Even though there

is no cure with the right therapy and time, things do

improve for most of us. You have just started a

journey that many of us have been on for varying

lenghts of time and degrees of severity. Here at this

sight you will find a lot of friends and information

to ease the load. You are not alone and things will

improve. We share medical information and what works

for one person may not work for the next. There are

many different treatment options available and it

takes time to find the right combination that helps

our individual situations. We learn how to cope with

the successes and the disappointments. If you are not

seeing a good rheumatologist please do so ASAP. Let

him know how and what you are felling both physically

and emotionally. If he doens't listen find another Dr

who will. (My first rheumatologist visit was my last

with that doc) I now have a great one. Also there are

support groups in many areas in addition to this one.

Educate yourself about the disease and treatments and

do not be afraid to take control of your life and

disease. Do not be afraid to make suggestions to your

Dr. about your care. They do not always give us all

the options available. This disease throws many of us

for a loop when we first become ill. Pain, lack of

sleep, job worries, how we will take care of ourselves

and our families can be totally overwhelming. Many

people (including families and work associaties) do

not understand RA and how it effects us. Be patient

with yourself. Ask for help when you need it-Dr.s,

family , work associates, and church. Many times we

never know how wonderful people are until we give them

the opportunity. Praying for you and your situation.

> hi

>

> i was diagnosed with ra about 3 mos. ago. symptoms

> came on rather

> suddenly, when over night i was nearly crippled with

> pain and went to

> the hospital. i was angry and surprised at the

> diagnosis, since i had

> n;o previous symptoms, and my ignorance of the

> disease led me to

> believe i was psychosomatic, since i thought

> arthritis was no big deal.

>

> i couldn't work for nearly 6 weeks, pain has

> improved only with

> multiple meds, including methotrexate, prednisone,

> hydroxychloroquin,

> naproxin, and humeris(inj. every other wk.). it

> seems that none of

> these rx's are either cures or good for you. the

> symptoms are only

> minimally eased, i'm now using a cane, and suffer

> from muscular

> cramping in hands, feet and legs. sleep is hard to

> come by, and the

> toll is great on me finacially. i'm slipping into

> arrears in rent and

> bills. i'm 59, a man, and i find this all

> emasculating. i've come to

> wits' end and see no future, but a lack of quality

> of life and loss of

> work. with this disease, and my age future work is

> not likely. i'm

> contemplating other ways out at this point.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

______________________________________________________

for Good

Donate to the Hurricane Katrina relief effort.

http://store./redcross-donate3/

[Guest guest]

thanks grammy b. a beautiful reply, with a lot of hope. wishing you well.

g.g.

Grammi B <grammi_love@...> wrote:

How I wish I could promise you that everything will soon get better. I can't

promise that, as we just don't know. But, there is strength in this

place...friends leaning upon each other...where neither gender nor age make any

difference in the way that love and encouragement is shared. Please hold on,

and walk this journey with us...it is not easy, but we can, perhaps, make it

just a little easier, helping you to know that you are absolutely not alone.

Lovingly...

Tess in Oregon