Hi, I'm new to the group

[Guest guest]

Hi All,

My name is Don, I'm 45 and I live in Atlanta. One day, just for fun

I did a google search on pa. I was amazed to find this group and

have been captivated by reading the information and personal

stories. Mine is similar to many.

I have had p since early teens, mostly small patches on scalp. I

have had joint pain on and off as long as I can remember. I had one

toe that was swollen and stiff since my early 20's. At 28, my left

thumb began to swell and stayed that way. My other toes (all except

big toes, weird huh?) followed, then my right ankle, left knee, left

hip, left wrist, neck and first finger of each hand. At each flare-

up, I saw a host of doctors and tried as many treatments to no

avail. Finally at 35 I was diagnosed with pa. I started on MTX, but

was not told of folic acid. Stomach trouble was worse than arthritis

pain. I got discouraged and have not been treated in almost 10 years

except by a dermo to contol the p. Of course my joints are severely

damaged now. However I have been encouraged by your stories and am

looking for a new rheumy and plan to start treatment again.

Thanks,

Don