just to say hello :-)

NicolaAnn

Hello everyone, my name is Nicola, I am a 36 year old stay at home mum with 3 boys. I have just been diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis this week although looking back at previous ailments it started almost 2 years ago it just took the right gp to realise that I needed to see a specialist. To say that it was a shock when the doctor told me what was wrong with me was an understatement, it's still sinking in.
I don't have many people that I can talk to about this as they don't seem to understand how I am feeling etc, my fiance has been great, so have my older kids. Any way that is my story in a nutshell, thanks for taking the time to read it. Nicola xx

stickywicket

Hello Nicola and welcome to the forum. I’m sure it will take some time to sink in and even longer to really get to grips with it. An understanding fiancé and helpful kids are a big bonus, as is a GP who is on the ball.

Mine is rheumatoid with some osteo as I’ve had the RA for over 50 years but the treatments are much the same as for PsA. Have you seen a rheumatologist then or are you waiting to do so? It is important as only they can prescribe the right medication which will, hopefully, hold the disease back.

If you have any questions you want to ask just start a new thread on the Living With Arthritis forum. People here are very friendly and helpful.

It might help your fiancé and others if you googled The Spoon Theory. It’s a useful way to explain to others how these auto-immune versions of arthritis affect us.

nicetomeetu

Hi Nicola and welcome,

I am a newish member myself. My arthritis started when I was about your age and at the time a single mum to young children, they are teenagers and young adults now. I have osteoarthritis which started in my ankles and gradually has worked itself up to my shoulders in the last decade or so. My doc described it as minor osteoarthritis. I asked why I was in so much pain then and the answer was quite vague, could be inflammation in tendons etc.

Recently my condition has worsened by bouts of fatigue and exhaustion that no amount of sleep satisfy, not forgetting the depression.

I take Naproxon and paracetamol to manage the pain.

xxxx

villier

Hi Nicola and welcome to a great forum, I have not been here long but the support and kindness you receive is second to none. my neice has PsA so I know exactly what you are going through I myself have OA, have a good old nosey around especially on chit chat if you are feeling low will certainly brighten up your day, being the weekend things are a bit quiet but I'm sure there will be others along later, hope to see you around .....tc......Marie xx

7worlds

Hey Nicola. Welcome to the forum. I have RA but there are a few people here who have the same as yourself. Im sure they will be along to give you some advice. Keep posting and let us know how you are getting on.

7Worlds