Just been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Archangel

Overwhelmed by the news the consultant gave me on Saturday. I have rheumatoid arthritis and now on hydroxychloroquine injections for life to help with pain in my joints especially my hands and neck. Isn’t very good news at all. Just a bit of a downer, I had a feeling that there was more to it than first thought as I have been feeling pretty rubbish lately. Hopefully, this treatment will help. The side effects are a bit worrying You just get fed up stuff going wrong just getting used this news and I feel very sad.

I am a carer and worry about my lovely man and not being able to look after him and do the necessary household chores after a while. The worst is that as a fine artist, it is my life and happy place and I am already grieving for a gift that will be taken away from me. I seriously have gone down a rabbit hole. I know it’s early day but the plans we have made and personal goals just feel lost. 😞

Eeyore

Oh, Archangel, you are not alone. Everyone who has had this diagnosis understands how you feel, it's overwhelming at first. But although there is no cure there are plenty of medications and if one doesn't work, or the side effects are too much to bear, another drug may. It might be a bit of a journey to get to a good place but you WILL get there. (I'm still on that journey but things are definitely improving)

Your rheumatology team will help you through this, don't be afraid to pester them with questions. And do take time to read through some of the positive posts on here, there are plenty of people who live near-normal lives with R.A. There IS light at the end of the tunnel.

Anna

Hello @Archangel and welcome to the online community,

I can only echo what has already been said so well by @Eeyore - it can be overwhelming to hear a diagnosis of RA, especially when you have a caring responsibility as you do. I hope you find encouragement from the stories of all our members who will understand what you’re going through and are here to support you.

On a personal note, I have been on hydroxychloroquine for 20 years and it has really helped me, with very few side effects. I have brought up two children and now am a carer for my Mum. There are many members who have also found that life, with a little adjustment, can be well-lived and fulfilling.

Please ask any questions you may have - there’s sure to be someone who can answer from their own experience.

Best wishes,

Anna ( Moderator)

Pl