Re: May I please ask a question?

[Guest guest]

Hello Me

It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you thought about

a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I had done that

when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there for them and

working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about part-time work

somewhere closer to home?

Take Care

Babs

[Guest guest]

Hello Me

It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you thought about

a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I had done that

when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there for them and

working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about part-time work

somewhere closer to home?

Take Care

Babs

[Guest guest]

I'm so very sorry your going through such a rough time. Are you

taking anything to stop the progession of the RA, if not that is very

important? Also, you might need some type of pain med. Do you have

a rheumatologist? It's hard to go through this chronic condition

without a good doctor. It seems to me your not getting proper

treatment, but that is my opinion. I want you to know that if you

ever want to talk, I'm always here, Tawny

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

wrote:

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for

night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting

and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only 34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling?

Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.

[Guest guest]

I'm so very sorry your going through such a rough time. Are you

taking anything to stop the progession of the RA, if not that is very

important? Also, you might need some type of pain med. Do you have

a rheumatologist? It's hard to go through this chronic condition

without a good doctor. It seems to me your not getting proper

treatment, but that is my opinion. I want you to know that if you

ever want to talk, I'm always here, Tawny

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for

night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting

and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only 34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling?

Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.

[Guest guest]

Thank you so much for your thoughts. I will try to answer everyones

questions. Yes, I was sent to 1 rheumatologist and he looked at me

and said " you have nothing but fibromyalgia " . Take Tylenol and get

extra rest. When I was crying and upset on my 2nd visit because of

the pain, he told me flat out 'if you're looking for pain meds, don't

come back because I don't give them to people like you'. I never went

back. How can I find a good doctor in my area? (NW Arkansas)

No, I'm on nothing to stop the progression. My pain management doctor

wants me in water therapy and physical therapy, but I can't miss work

(I've already missed 12 days in the past year due to the pain), so I

can't go. Financially we can't afford for me to go to part time, we

are struggling severely anway. At times I can't even afford my

medicine. As for disability, I've been told (I don't know if it's

correct) but even if a specialist recommends being off, I have to be

without work 6 mths and then I can file for disability, but then it

can take up to 2 years to get it. My family can't do without income

for a month, let alone 2 years. I love my family, but feel very

useless and hopeless facing this.

Is anyone familiar with the c-reactive protein test? Because it's not

very high, am I being a baby? I've been told some peoples test is

80...I don't think I can handle that.

<sigh>

> Hello Me

>

> It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

thought about

> a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I had

done that

> when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there for

them and

> working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about part-

time work

> somewhere closer to home?

>

> Take Care

> Babs

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you so much for your thoughts. I will try to answer everyones

questions. Yes, I was sent to 1 rheumatologist and he looked at me

and said " you have nothing but fibromyalgia " . Take Tylenol and get

extra rest. When I was crying and upset on my 2nd visit because of

the pain, he told me flat out 'if you're looking for pain meds, don't

come back because I don't give them to people like you'. I never went

back. How can I find a good doctor in my area? (NW Arkansas)

No, I'm on nothing to stop the progression. My pain management doctor

wants me in water therapy and physical therapy, but I can't miss work

(I've already missed 12 days in the past year due to the pain), so I

can't go. Financially we can't afford for me to go to part time, we

are struggling severely anway. At times I can't even afford my

medicine. As for disability, I've been told (I don't know if it's

correct) but even if a specialist recommends being off, I have to be

without work 6 mths and then I can file for disability, but then it

can take up to 2 years to get it. My family can't do without income

for a month, let alone 2 years. I love my family, but feel very

useless and hopeless facing this.

Is anyone familiar with the c-reactive protein test? Because it's not

very high, am I being a baby? I've been told some peoples test is

80...I don't think I can handle that.

<sigh>

> Hello Me

>

> It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

thought about

> a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I had

done that

> when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there for

them and

> working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about part-

time work

> somewhere closer to home?

>

> Take Care

> Babs

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

My understanding is that it is not uncommon with RA, lupus and other

autoimmune disorders that your CRP may be low and ESR high. Also,

fibro generally will have no lab abnormalities, including ESR and

CRP.

My CRP has NEVER been above 1.7, and my ESR keeps going up. This is

even when my ankles have swollen " bubbles " the size of golfballs

coming from the joints, and I can barely move my hands.

I know how you feel...I'm 37 and feel like I'm 97 some days. I'm not

used to this...I've always been independent and healthy. And, in

some ways, it is harder for my family to get used to " the new me "

than I am. I feel the pain and fatigue. They only see someone who

used to always be on the go suddenly turn into a slug whose favorite

new word is " OWWWW " .

I get down about it sometimes, but I'm trying to keep a sense of

humor about it...and keep everything in perspective. I found an RA

clinic close to home, and I'm hoping that these guys take the time

to listen to me and treat my illness appropriately. Taking charge

of my illness has given me at least some control in a disease and

situation that too often feels out of control.

I am starting a new, full time job for the first time since I've

been diagnosed, and the first time since the worst of the symptoms

began to appear. I'm scared, but I think that this is another way

for me to gain some control back over my life. I won't lie down

until I absolutely must. I, too, have a job that requires hours of

sitting and working at the computer. I'm a graphic designer, and

have worked in the publishing industry for close to 15 years. I

know that you can easily work 18+ hour days for months on end. I

know my limits and that I can't do that, anymore.

Can you find a way to make sure you get up at least once every hour

or half hour just to stretch and maybe walk a little? I will be

setting an alarm on my computer for every 30 minutes-1 hour so I can

stop, stretch, get up, etc. I tend to hyper focus, anyway, and have

been known to work on a project for 12 hours non-stop and not

realize it. I know I can't do that anymore, and by setting my alarm

I am preventing myself from doing this.

As for family, you are in a better situation, in some ways, and

worse in others. Your kids are old enough to know that something is

wrong, and that you are not the mom you " used to be " , but they also

are old enough to understand the problem and help take some of the

responsibilities. If you can get creative and find some kind of fun

reward or turn it into a game of some sort, I think you all could

benefit. I have a 19 month old who really doesn't understand that

Mommy is really hurting today and can't hold you down when you are

kicking and change the diaper at the same time, or that Mommy is

really too tired to walk to the park. The good thing is that I'm

learning to teach her to be helpful very early on. She's learning

to help carry things for me, and unload the dishes, and help put

things away. I'm learning to be creative about this, so she doesn't

feel it is a chore or that she is being put upon, and I'm hoping

that this will continue as she gets older. This way, I won't feel

like I'm a burden on her, or I'm ruining her childhood by being a

sick mom.

I guess I'm rambling, but I felt a lot like you do (and still do,

sometimes), and decided I can't spend the rest of my life in misery

and let this disease rule me. I didn't see this as my future

growing up, and I'll be damned if I'm going to let it become my

future. I still hurt, and I'm still too exhausted to move some days,

and, yes, I still get very depressed about it, but by doing what I

can do to make this disease more livable for EVERYONE, I'm taking

charge, in a way.

Hope this helps.

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

wrote:

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for

night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do

I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting

and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only

34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can

continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling?

Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.

[Guest guest]

My understanding is that it is not uncommon with RA, lupus and other

autoimmune disorders that your CRP may be low and ESR high. Also,

fibro generally will have no lab abnormalities, including ESR and

CRP.

My CRP has NEVER been above 1.7, and my ESR keeps going up. This is

even when my ankles have swollen " bubbles " the size of golfballs

coming from the joints, and I can barely move my hands.

I know how you feel...I'm 37 and feel like I'm 97 some days. I'm not

used to this...I've always been independent and healthy. And, in

some ways, it is harder for my family to get used to " the new me "

than I am. I feel the pain and fatigue. They only see someone who

used to always be on the go suddenly turn into a slug whose favorite

new word is " OWWWW " .

I get down about it sometimes, but I'm trying to keep a sense of

humor about it...and keep everything in perspective. I found an RA

clinic close to home, and I'm hoping that these guys take the time

to listen to me and treat my illness appropriately. Taking charge

of my illness has given me at least some control in a disease and

situation that too often feels out of control.

I am starting a new, full time job for the first time since I've

been diagnosed, and the first time since the worst of the symptoms

began to appear. I'm scared, but I think that this is another way

for me to gain some control back over my life. I won't lie down

until I absolutely must. I, too, have a job that requires hours of

sitting and working at the computer. I'm a graphic designer, and

have worked in the publishing industry for close to 15 years. I

know that you can easily work 18+ hour days for months on end. I

know my limits and that I can't do that, anymore.

Can you find a way to make sure you get up at least once every hour

or half hour just to stretch and maybe walk a little? I will be

setting an alarm on my computer for every 30 minutes-1 hour so I can

stop, stretch, get up, etc. I tend to hyper focus, anyway, and have

been known to work on a project for 12 hours non-stop and not

realize it. I know I can't do that anymore, and by setting my alarm

I am preventing myself from doing this.

As for family, you are in a better situation, in some ways, and

worse in others. Your kids are old enough to know that something is

wrong, and that you are not the mom you " used to be " , but they also

are old enough to understand the problem and help take some of the

responsibilities. If you can get creative and find some kind of fun

reward or turn it into a game of some sort, I think you all could

benefit. I have a 19 month old who really doesn't understand that

Mommy is really hurting today and can't hold you down when you are

kicking and change the diaper at the same time, or that Mommy is

really too tired to walk to the park. The good thing is that I'm

learning to teach her to be helpful very early on. She's learning

to help carry things for me, and unload the dishes, and help put

things away. I'm learning to be creative about this, so she doesn't

feel it is a chore or that she is being put upon, and I'm hoping

that this will continue as she gets older. This way, I won't feel

like I'm a burden on her, or I'm ruining her childhood by being a

sick mom.

I guess I'm rambling, but I felt a lot like you do (and still do,

sometimes), and decided I can't spend the rest of my life in misery

and let this disease rule me. I didn't see this as my future

growing up, and I'll be damned if I'm going to let it become my

future. I still hurt, and I'm still too exhausted to move some days,

and, yes, I still get very depressed about it, but by doing what I

can do to make this disease more livable for EVERYONE, I'm taking

charge, in a way.

Hope this helps.

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for

night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do

I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting

and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only

34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can

continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling?

Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.

[Guest guest]

This is wonderful! Thank you so very much. I crave the encouragement and

acceptance so much these days. I have a wonderful fiance that tries to

understand, but his motto is, if you need help or anything, ask me. I'm a very

proud and stubborn woman and will wait until I'm in excrutiating pain before

asking. Maybe the Lord is teaching me humility? I don't know.

But thank you so very much. God Bless.

tandarat <mflinder@...> wrote:

My understanding is that it is not uncommon with RA, lupus and other

autoimmune disorders that your CRP may be low and ESR high. Also,

fibro generally will have no lab abnormalities, including ESR and

CRP.

My CRP has NEVER been above 1.7, and my ESR keeps going up. This is

even when my ankles have swollen " bubbles " the size of golfballs

coming from the joints, and I can barely move my hands.

I know how you feel...I'm 37 and feel like I'm 97 some days. I'm not

used to this...I've always been independent and healthy. And, in

some ways, it is harder for my family to get used to " the new me "

than I am. I feel the pain and fatigue. They only see someone who

used to always be on the go suddenly turn into a slug whose favorite

new word is " OWWWW " .

I get down about it sometimes, but I'm trying to keep a sense of

humor about it...and keep everything in perspective. I found an RA

clinic close to home, and I'm hoping that these guys take the time

to listen to me and treat my illness appropriately. Taking charge

of my illness has given me at least some control in a disease and

situation that too often feels out of control.

I am starting a new, full time job for the first time since I've

been diagnosed, and the first time since the worst of the symptoms

began to appear. I'm scared, but I think that this is another way

for me to gain some control back over my life. I won't lie down

until I absolutely must. I, too, have a job that requires hours of

sitting and working at the computer. I'm a graphic designer, and

have worked in the publishing industry for close to 15 years. I

know that you can easily work 18+ hour days for months on end. I

know my limits and that I can't do that, anymore.

Can you find a way to make sure you get up at least once every hour

or half hour just to stretch and maybe walk a little? I will be

setting an alarm on my computer for every 30 minutes-1 hour so I can

stop, stretch, get up, etc. I tend to hyper focus, anyway, and have

been known to work on a project for 12 hours non-stop and not

realize it. I know I can't do that anymore, and by setting my alarm

I am preventing myself from doing this.

As for family, you are in a better situation, in some ways, and

worse in others. Your kids are old enough to know that something is

wrong, and that you are not the mom you " used to be " , but they also

are old enough to understand the problem and help take some of the

responsibilities. If you can get creative and find some kind of fun

reward or turn it into a game of some sort, I think you all could

benefit. I have a 19 month old who really doesn't understand that

Mommy is really hurting today and can't hold you down when you are

kicking and change the diaper at the same time, or that Mommy is

really too tired to walk to the park. The good thing is that I'm

learning to teach her to be helpful very early on. She's learning

to help carry things for me, and unload the dishes, and help put

things away. I'm learning to be creative about this, so she doesn't

feel it is a chore or that she is being put upon, and I'm hoping

that this will continue as she gets older. This way, I won't feel

like I'm a burden on her, or I'm ruining her childhood by being a

sick mom.

I guess I'm rambling, but I felt a lot like you do (and still do,

sometimes), and decided I can't spend the rest of my life in misery

and let this disease rule me. I didn't see this as my future

growing up, and I'll be damned if I'm going to let it become my

future. I still hurt, and I'm still too exhausted to move some days,

and, yes, I still get very depressed about it, but by doing what I

can do to make this disease more livable for EVERYONE, I'm taking

charge, in a way.

Hope this helps.

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

wrote:

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for

night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do

I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting

and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only

34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can

continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling?

Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.

[Guest guest]

This is wonderful! Thank you so very much. I crave the encouragement and

acceptance so much these days. I have a wonderful fiance that tries to

understand, but his motto is, if you need help or anything, ask me. I'm a very

proud and stubborn woman and will wait until I'm in excrutiating pain before

asking. Maybe the Lord is teaching me humility? I don't know.

But thank you so very much. God Bless.

tandarat <mflinder@...> wrote:

My understanding is that it is not uncommon with RA, lupus and other

autoimmune disorders that your CRP may be low and ESR high. Also,

fibro generally will have no lab abnormalities, including ESR and

CRP.

My CRP has NEVER been above 1.7, and my ESR keeps going up. This is

even when my ankles have swollen " bubbles " the size of golfballs

coming from the joints, and I can barely move my hands.

I know how you feel...I'm 37 and feel like I'm 97 some days. I'm not

used to this...I've always been independent and healthy. And, in

some ways, it is harder for my family to get used to " the new me "

than I am. I feel the pain and fatigue. They only see someone who

used to always be on the go suddenly turn into a slug whose favorite

new word is " OWWWW " .

I get down about it sometimes, but I'm trying to keep a sense of

humor about it...and keep everything in perspective. I found an RA

clinic close to home, and I'm hoping that these guys take the time

to listen to me and treat my illness appropriately. Taking charge

of my illness has given me at least some control in a disease and

situation that too often feels out of control.

I am starting a new, full time job for the first time since I've

been diagnosed, and the first time since the worst of the symptoms

began to appear. I'm scared, but I think that this is another way

for me to gain some control back over my life. I won't lie down

until I absolutely must. I, too, have a job that requires hours of

sitting and working at the computer. I'm a graphic designer, and

have worked in the publishing industry for close to 15 years. I

know that you can easily work 18+ hour days for months on end. I

know my limits and that I can't do that, anymore.

Can you find a way to make sure you get up at least once every hour

or half hour just to stretch and maybe walk a little? I will be

setting an alarm on my computer for every 30 minutes-1 hour so I can

stop, stretch, get up, etc. I tend to hyper focus, anyway, and have

been known to work on a project for 12 hours non-stop and not

realize it. I know I can't do that anymore, and by setting my alarm

I am preventing myself from doing this.

As for family, you are in a better situation, in some ways, and

worse in others. Your kids are old enough to know that something is

wrong, and that you are not the mom you " used to be " , but they also

are old enough to understand the problem and help take some of the

responsibilities. If you can get creative and find some kind of fun

reward or turn it into a game of some sort, I think you all could

benefit. I have a 19 month old who really doesn't understand that

Mommy is really hurting today and can't hold you down when you are

kicking and change the diaper at the same time, or that Mommy is

really too tired to walk to the park. The good thing is that I'm

learning to teach her to be helpful very early on. She's learning

to help carry things for me, and unload the dishes, and help put

things away. I'm learning to be creative about this, so she doesn't

feel it is a chore or that she is being put upon, and I'm hoping

that this will continue as she gets older. This way, I won't feel

like I'm a burden on her, or I'm ruining her childhood by being a

sick mom.

I guess I'm rambling, but I felt a lot like you do (and still do,

sometimes), and decided I can't spend the rest of my life in misery

and let this disease rule me. I didn't see this as my future

growing up, and I'll be damned if I'm going to let it become my

future. I still hurt, and I'm still too exhausted to move some days,

and, yes, I still get very depressed about it, but by doing what I

can do to make this disease more livable for EVERYONE, I'm taking

charge, in a way.

Hope this helps.

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for

night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do

I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting

and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only

34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can

continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling?

Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.

[Guest guest]

I'm glad you found this group. It's a great group of people for

support and information. We have some great moderators, and they can

tell you all the things you need to know.

I can understand when you have to work, it's really hard. Do you have

insurance? There are programs that will help you get meds, so we can

also let you know about them. This rheumy really makes me mad!!!

Why do doctors treat people like this? If you have insurance, you

can contact them, and let them know how you were treated. They can

help you find another one. Not all doctors are like this, so don't

get down. We have others in the group from Arkansas, so just hang on

girl, were here for you. Someone can help you find a doctor in your

area. We will do everything to help you, so please keep that with

you. Your not being a baby, your a person in pain trying to deal

with life, and struggle with this chronic disease. Please, know that

I'm here for you, and always here if you need to talk. Hang in here,

were here for you. I just want to say how sorry I am once again, you

shouldn't have to go through this. I don't know how you do it, but

your a strong woman.

Hugs, Tawny

PS:Can I ask what your first name is?

> > Hello Me

> >

> > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> thought about

> > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

had

> done that

> > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

for

> them and

> > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

part-

> time work

> > somewhere closer to home?

> >

> > Take Care

> > Babs

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

I'm glad you found this group. It's a great group of people for

support and information. We have some great moderators, and they can

tell you all the things you need to know.

I can understand when you have to work, it's really hard. Do you have

insurance? There are programs that will help you get meds, so we can

also let you know about them. This rheumy really makes me mad!!!

Why do doctors treat people like this? If you have insurance, you

can contact them, and let them know how you were treated. They can

help you find another one. Not all doctors are like this, so don't

get down. We have others in the group from Arkansas, so just hang on

girl, were here for you. Someone can help you find a doctor in your

area. We will do everything to help you, so please keep that with

you. Your not being a baby, your a person in pain trying to deal

with life, and struggle with this chronic disease. Please, know that

I'm here for you, and always here if you need to talk. Hang in here,

were here for you. I just want to say how sorry I am once again, you

shouldn't have to go through this. I don't know how you do it, but

your a strong woman.

Hugs, Tawny

PS:Can I ask what your first name is?

> > Hello Me

> >

> > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> thought about

> > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

had

> done that

> > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

for

> them and

> > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

part-

> time work

> > somewhere closer to home?

> >

> > Take Care

> > Babs

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

CRP measures the *immediate* amount of general inflammation in the

body. I can be in severe pain, and my CRP is still relatively low.

Also, fibromyalgia does not show any inflammation on lab tests,

which is what makes it so frustrating.

Do you know of any arthritis groups in your area? My current

rheumatologist is a creep, too. I finally found a medical group

that specializes ONLY in autoimmune problems, and set an appointment

in two weeks. Yeah, I gotta take time off from work for it (and a

new job, too), but regardless of how badly we need this job as a

family, if I end up too sick or too disabled to work, or worse, no

job will be able to help me. If you had to take some time off for

an appointment or tests, and they say something, you might want to

mention that you are doing this to get control over your condition

so you won't miss as much work. I had to use this one when I was

being treated for a heart problem (yes, they made comments about my

appointments...).

My next suggestion would be to contact the nearest medical

university, and ask for their rheumatology department. They may be

able to point you to a doctor who has a clue. I might also ask for

a female doctor. It isn't always true, I know, but I'd say 80-90%

of female doctors are more willing to listen (and believe) a female

patient.

Good luck, and don't give up until you have answers and proper

treatment.

> > Hello Me

> >

> > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> thought about

> > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

had

> done that

> > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

for

> them and

> > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

part-

> time work

> > somewhere closer to home?

> >

> > Take Care

> > Babs

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

CRP measures the *immediate* amount of general inflammation in the

body. I can be in severe pain, and my CRP is still relatively low.

Also, fibromyalgia does not show any inflammation on lab tests,

which is what makes it so frustrating.

Do you know of any arthritis groups in your area? My current

rheumatologist is a creep, too. I finally found a medical group

that specializes ONLY in autoimmune problems, and set an appointment

in two weeks. Yeah, I gotta take time off from work for it (and a

new job, too), but regardless of how badly we need this job as a

family, if I end up too sick or too disabled to work, or worse, no

job will be able to help me. If you had to take some time off for

an appointment or tests, and they say something, you might want to

mention that you are doing this to get control over your condition

so you won't miss as much work. I had to use this one when I was

being treated for a heart problem (yes, they made comments about my

appointments...).

My next suggestion would be to contact the nearest medical

university, and ask for their rheumatology department. They may be

able to point you to a doctor who has a clue. I might also ask for

a female doctor. It isn't always true, I know, but I'd say 80-90%

of female doctors are more willing to listen (and believe) a female

patient.

Good luck, and don't give up until you have answers and proper

treatment.

> > Hello Me

> >

> > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> thought about

> > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

had

> done that

> > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

for

> them and

> > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

part-

> time work

> > somewhere closer to home?

> >

> > Take Care

> > Babs

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Thank you so much Tawny. I need all of you so much right now. It's wonderful

that you understand! Who would have thought understanding is such a valuable

thing? But it is. My name is Prisicilla. It's wonderful to meet you all.

I have another question (actually about a hundred, but I'll space them out)...Do

these nodule things ever go away?

Thanks...

tdianaok <tdianaok@...> wrote:

I'm glad you found this group. It's a great group of people for

support and information. We have some great moderators, and they can

tell you all the things you need to know.

I can understand when you have to work, it's really hard. Do you have

insurance? There are programs that will help you get meds, so we can

also let you know about them. This rheumy really makes me mad!!!

Why do doctors treat people like this? If you have insurance, you

can contact them, and let them know how you were treated. They can

help you find another one. Not all doctors are like this, so don't

get down. We have others in the group from Arkansas, so just hang on

girl, were here for you. Someone can help you find a doctor in your

area. We will do everything to help you, so please keep that with

you. Your not being a baby, your a person in pain trying to deal

with life, and struggle with this chronic disease. Please, know that

I'm here for you, and always here if you need to talk. Hang in here,

were here for you. I just want to say how sorry I am once again, you

shouldn't have to go through this. I don't know how you do it, but

your a strong woman.

Hugs, Tawny

PS:Can I ask what your first name is?

> > Hello Me

> >

> > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> thought about

> > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

had

> done that

> > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

for

> them and

> > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

part-

> time work

> > somewhere closer to home?

> >

> > Take Care

> > Babs

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Thank you so much Tawny. I need all of you so much right now. It's wonderful

that you understand! Who would have thought understanding is such a valuable

thing? But it is. My name is Prisicilla. It's wonderful to meet you all.

I have another question (actually about a hundred, but I'll space them out)...Do

these nodule things ever go away?

Thanks...

tdianaok <tdianaok@...> wrote:

I'm glad you found this group. It's a great group of people for

support and information. We have some great moderators, and they can

tell you all the things you need to know.

I can understand when you have to work, it's really hard. Do you have

insurance? There are programs that will help you get meds, so we can

also let you know about them. This rheumy really makes me mad!!!

Why do doctors treat people like this? If you have insurance, you

can contact them, and let them know how you were treated. They can

help you find another one. Not all doctors are like this, so don't

get down. We have others in the group from Arkansas, so just hang on

girl, were here for you. Someone can help you find a doctor in your

area. We will do everything to help you, so please keep that with

you. Your not being a baby, your a person in pain trying to deal

with life, and struggle with this chronic disease. Please, know that

I'm here for you, and always here if you need to talk. Hang in here,

were here for you. I just want to say how sorry I am once again, you

shouldn't have to go through this. I don't know how you do it, but

your a strong woman.

Hugs, Tawny

PS:Can I ask what your first name is?

> > Hello Me

> >

> > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> thought about

> > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

had

> done that

> > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

for

> them and

> > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

part-

> time work

> > somewhere closer to home?

> >

> > Take Care

> > Babs

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

I had nodules on my elbows. Sometime after starting Enbrel, they went

away. Sue

On Wednesday, July 13, 2005, at 08:23 PM, Dalena Chandler wrote:

> Thank you so much Tawny. I need all of you so much right now. It's

> wonderful that you understand! Who would have thought understanding

> is such a valuable thing? But it is. My name is Prisicilla. It's

> wonderful to meet you all.

>

> I have another question (actually about a hundred, but I'll space them

> out)...Do these nodule things ever go away?

[Guest guest]

I had nodules on my elbows. Sometime after starting Enbrel, they went

away. Sue

On Wednesday, July 13, 2005, at 08:23 PM, Dalena Chandler wrote:

> Thank you so much Tawny. I need all of you so much right now. It's

> wonderful that you understand! Who would have thought understanding

> is such a valuable thing? But it is. My name is Prisicilla. It's

> wonderful to meet you all.

>

> I have another question (actually about a hundred, but I'll space them

> out)...Do these nodule things ever go away?

[Guest guest]

Hi Prisicilla,

I also had a couple of nodules, and they went away. I'm so glad your

here, and I know this is all so confusing, but this is a great place

to be. When I first was diagnosed with RA, I didn't know much about

it. I found this group, and its the greatest, its been my lifeline.

I have so many wonderful friends, and so much support.

Your so welcome, and I do understand how you feel.

Hugs, Tawny

> > > Hello Me

> > >

> > > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> > thought about

> > > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

> had

> > done that

> > > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

> for

> > them and

> > > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

> part-

> > time work

> > > somewhere closer to home?

> > >

> > > Take Care

> > > Babs

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

Hi Prisicilla,

I also had a couple of nodules, and they went away. I'm so glad your

here, and I know this is all so confusing, but this is a great place

to be. When I first was diagnosed with RA, I didn't know much about

it. I found this group, and its the greatest, its been my lifeline.

I have so many wonderful friends, and so much support.

Your so welcome, and I do understand how you feel.

Hugs, Tawny

> > > Hello Me

> > >

> > > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> > thought about

> > > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

> had

> > done that

> > > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

> for

> > them and

> > > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

> part-

> > time work

> > > somewhere closer to home?

> > >

> > > Take Care

> > > Babs

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

Hi.

This is the first time today I've had a chance to read the posts.....and I

know you've had lots of replies. I just really wanted to give you my two

cents worth. Your post just reminded me so much of myself and where

I was two months ago in dealing with and accepting this disease.

Sounds to me like you were still in denial about your disease and the

diagnosis. You were still continuing on with work, the long commute,

taking care of the kids, etc......as you did before becoming ill. You're in

pain right now and your body needs to rest. Maybe your meds need to

be adjusted to control the pain and other symptoms a bit better.

You mentioned that you're concerned about going on disability because

you're so young. Sadly, RA doesn't care what age you are. Please, if

you have any type of short-term or long-term medical benefits, try and

use them right now to get your RA under control. Consider it an

opportunity to be good to your body and give it the well deserved rest it

needs right now. As someone so kindly put it to me a few months ago,

consider it a " gift " . Use the time off to rest, get well and be at home

with your family.

I don't wish RA on anybody, but we have it....and until there is a cure,

we are stuck with it. Sometimes, it can give those of us who live a

very busy life the opportunity to slow down and " smell the roses " .

You're not crazy, you're not a weakling and you're definately NOT

hopeless. We all have to go through what you're dealing with now. I

can assure you that it does get easier emotionally. You will come to

terms with having it and accept the fact that life has changed for you.

It doesn't mean you can't do things you used to do....it might just mean

that you have to modify how you do it.

Thank you so much for sharing,

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only 34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling? Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.

[Guest guest]

Hi.

This is the first time today I've had a chance to read the posts.....and I

know you've had lots of replies. I just really wanted to give you my two

cents worth. Your post just reminded me so much of myself and where

I was two months ago in dealing with and accepting this disease.

Sounds to me like you were still in denial about your disease and the

diagnosis. You were still continuing on with work, the long commute,

taking care of the kids, etc......as you did before becoming ill. You're in

pain right now and your body needs to rest. Maybe your meds need to

be adjusted to control the pain and other symptoms a bit better.

You mentioned that you're concerned about going on disability because

you're so young. Sadly, RA doesn't care what age you are. Please, if

you have any type of short-term or long-term medical benefits, try and

use them right now to get your RA under control. Consider it an

opportunity to be good to your body and give it the well deserved rest it

needs right now. As someone so kindly put it to me a few months ago,

consider it a " gift " . Use the time off to rest, get well and be at home

with your family.

I don't wish RA on anybody, but we have it....and until there is a cure,

we are stuck with it. Sometimes, it can give those of us who live a

very busy life the opportunity to slow down and " smell the roses " .

You're not crazy, you're not a weakling and you're definately NOT

hopeless. We all have to go through what you're dealing with now. I

can assure you that it does get easier emotionally. You will come to

terms with having it and accept the fact that life has changed for you.

It doesn't mean you can't do things you used to do....it might just mean

that you have to modify how you do it.

Thank you so much for sharing,

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only 34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling? Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the family, Priscilla, you will find a great support team here, all

ready to help you. BTW, Tawny, until Sue mentioned it, I had not even noticed

that the nodules on my elbows had disappeared LOL and I, too, take Enbrel. When

I was much younger I had the nodules surgically removed several times but they

always came back on the tips of my elbows.

Hugs

June

----- Original Message -----

From: tdianaok

Hi Prisicilla,

I also had a couple of nodules, and they went away. I'm so glad your

here, and I know this is all so confusing, but this is a great place

to be. When I first was diagnosed with RA, I didn't know much about

it. I found this group, and its the greatest, its been my lifeline.

I have so many wonderful friends, and so much support.

Your so welcome, and I do understand how you feel.

Hugs, Tawny

> > > Hello Me

> > >

> > > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> > thought about

> > > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

> had

> > done that

> > > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

> for

> > them and

> > > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

> part-

> > time work

> > > somewhere closer to home?

> > >

> > > Take Care

> > > Babs

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the family, Priscilla, you will find a great support team here, all

ready to help you. BTW, Tawny, until Sue mentioned it, I had not even noticed

that the nodules on my elbows had disappeared LOL and I, too, take Enbrel. When

I was much younger I had the nodules surgically removed several times but they

always came back on the tips of my elbows.

Hugs

June

----- Original Message -----

From: tdianaok

Hi Prisicilla,

I also had a couple of nodules, and they went away. I'm so glad your

here, and I know this is all so confusing, but this is a great place

to be. When I first was diagnosed with RA, I didn't know much about

it. I found this group, and its the greatest, its been my lifeline.

I have so many wonderful friends, and so much support.

Your so welcome, and I do understand how you feel.

Hugs, Tawny

> > > Hello Me

> > >

> > > It sounds like you are miserable and really suffering. Have you

> > thought about

> > > a medical retirement (you might be to young)? I sort of wish I

> had

> > done that

> > > when my kids were younger. It's so important that you are there

> for

> > them and

> > > working that hard only makes this disease worse. What about

> part-

> > time work

> > > somewhere closer to home?

> > >

> > > Take Care

> > > Babs

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

,

Your letter made me cry. Not in a bad way, but in a way that I know you

understand. I know everyone here understands. I am 1 of 13 children (the only

girl) and was brought up to be strong, silent and martyrs for our men and

family. This is such a frustrating thing for me to accept. The people I work

with also don't understand. They think all types of arthritis is just a

stiffening and achy feeling here and there. I do have a friend at work that

helps a lot. She bends for me to get things out of the ice machine and has

actually opened doors for me at work. (We have extremely heavy security doors,

in fact one day I was stuck in the restroom until someone came in and opened the

door...I know, pathetic). I guess I need to realize that I have a disease

<gulp> and that yes, things are changing. I really think if I could finally

find a compassionate doctor that understood, that things would get better. I

guess that's the first step. Please pray that the Lord brings to my

attention a good doctor in this area? And yes, I have disability (8 weeks at

full pay) if a doctor files for me to be off. Guess we'll have to see.

Thank you so very much. Please know that I appreciate all the kind words,

knowledge and e-mails.

Prisicilla

ltlmisscrankypants <ltlmisscrankypants@...> wrote:

Hi.

This is the first time today I've had a chance to read the posts.....and I

know you've had lots of replies. I just really wanted to give you my two

cents worth. Your post just reminded me so much of myself and where

I was two months ago in dealing with and accepting this disease.

Sounds to me like you were still in denial about your disease and the

diagnosis. You were still continuing on with work, the long commute,

taking care of the kids, etc......as you did before becoming ill. You're in

pain right now and your body needs to rest. Maybe your meds need to

be adjusted to control the pain and other symptoms a bit better.

You mentioned that you're concerned about going on disability because

you're so young. Sadly, RA doesn't care what age you are. Please, if

you have any type of short-term or long-term medical benefits, try and

use them right now to get your RA under control. Consider it an

opportunity to be good to your body and give it the well deserved rest it

needs right now. As someone so kindly put it to me a few months ago,

consider it a " gift " . Use the time off to rest, get well and be at home

with your family.

I don't wish RA on anybody, but we have it....and until there is a cure,

we are stuck with it. Sometimes, it can give those of us who live a

very busy life the opportunity to slow down and " smell the roses " .

You're not crazy, you're not a weakling and you're definately NOT

hopeless. We all have to go through what you're dealing with now. I

can assure you that it does get easier emotionally. You will come to

terms with having it and accept the fact that life has changed for you.

It doesn't mean you can't do things you used to do....it might just mean

that you have to modify how you do it.

Thank you so much for sharing,

> I was diagnosed about 6 mths ago with fibromyalgia and RA. I've

been

> dealing with it pretty well (at least I think I am). I work full-

> time and have 3 children (5,6, and 7 years old). I drive an hour

> each direction for work.

>

> I've maintained well with the help of an anti-depressant, anti-

> inflammatory, pain medication (xodol) and a muscle relaxer for night

> time. My question is this, I've been having my c-reactive protein

> monitored and been told that it's " not terribly high " , but why do I

> hurt so bad?? I have nodules(?) growing on my wrists and various

> other places. I do accounting all day, so it's a lot of sitting and

> typing. I can't straighten out my knees anymore either and after

> sitting for just 20-30 minutes when I stand my knees give out

> sometimes or I have to catch my breath before I move. I am only 34

> years old! I honestly feel like a weakling, especially with the

> comments about my c-reactive protein. I don't know what to do.

> Sometimes I can barely move. I don't know how long I can continue,

> but I know I can't go on disability yet. Am I crazy? A weakling? Is

> this hopeless?

>

> Please help me.