ra

I have had RA for over 20 years. When I first got it my fingers would swell up like sausages and I couldn't bend them. Then I was so tired that all I could do was sleep . It was very painful to move any joints but also painful not to move. I had to rely on my daughters for every thing. I had to get steroid shots to be able to move. I also had gold shots at least once a month. Yes they were real gold. I have had years with it in remission. Now I am tired a lot and don't have much strength especially in my hands. My hands are getting deformed now too. There is medication to stop the deformity but I can't afford it. It is a painful and crippling disease.

I have carpal tunnel syndrome and it really affects me specially with my works. How much more if you have RA. It is said that, [i]arthritis is a general term that describes inflammation in joints. Inflammation is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis affects everyone differently. In most people, joint symptoms may develop gradually over several years. In other people, rheumatoid arthritis may progress rapidly. Other people may have rheumatoid arthritis for a limited period of time and then enter a remission (a time with no symptoms). There are many different ways to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Treatments include medications, rest and exercise, and surgery to correct damage to the joint. The type of treatment prescribed will depend on several factors including the person’s age, overall health, medical history and severity of the arthritis.[/i] Have a nice day!