newly diagnosed and feeling lost and lonely

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Cherry_blossoms25
Cherry_blossoms25 Member Posts: 3
edited 24. Jun 2025, 20:27 in Coffee Lounge

Hi all,😔

I have been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis last week only and feeling so overwhelmed with all the information and the effects it would have on me for my future life. I am 40 yrs old and always been very physically active and not sure if i would be able to continue that. I am not on any drugs as of now and have been suggested methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine(but both have their own side effects) not sure which one to start as I am generally feeling ok so far except few swollen fingers on left hand. How long should I wait to start medication ? I am feeling very depressed to have lost my freedom i had with my earlier arthritis free body. Just saying hello and trying to discover new ways of life from here on….. not sure if there are any local chat groups where we can physically meet and chat over a cup of coffee.

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  • Anna
    Anna Moderator Posts: 1,192

    Hello @Cherry_blossoms25 , I wrote you in response to your helpful reply to one of our members. It’s great that you’ve joined us and are already joining in to help others.

    I hope you find the support you need from our friendly members.

    Anna ( Moderator)

    Need more help? - call our Helpline on 0800 5200 520 Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm


  • Moira
    Moira Member Posts: 126

    Helo, I don't have RA but my friend has. She has been on medication for years now and has appontments with her rhumatologist regularly. She is able to charge around on her bike and teaches part-time in schools plus teaching laguage at night. So in many ways you can work with RA and don't need to become a recluse. There will be ups and downs as there are with RA but that is where this community and your Rhumatology Clinic can help.

    Arthritic diagnoses can floor you. I myself have a complex history. I was on Methitrexate a number of years ago and found it really helpful. It takes a wee bit to kick in. The only thing was that it began to affect my blood count so I was changed onto another drug.

    Rhumatology clinics can be really helpful, as can Versus Artritis. Look at the info they have. I'm sure you will be refered to a clinic. I found my rhumatology nurse that I saw really helpful and funny, so kept up my spirits.

    Good luck with things. You know what they say about eating an elephant - a little at a time. Work that way with your RA. Keep in contact with teh cumminity.

    Moira

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