Hi, I'm Wendy. I am 47 years old but sometimes feel as if I am 97. I was diagnosed with RA and ankylosing spondylitis earlier this year. I've been on Enbrel for about 3 weeks and can't tell much difference. I was on Plaquenil which was discontinued when I started the Enbrel. Honestly, I felt better on the Plaqenil, I can't tell that the overpriced Enbrel is doing anything. I just feel so sick most of the time, like I have the flu or something. Hurt allover, nauseated. Haven't been diagnosed with fibro but sometimes I wonder if I have that too. My RA is seronegative. I am a registered nurse and my symptoms really makes no sense to me. I have never taken care of an RA patient that was in severe pain that their sed rate didn't go up any. I am really frustrated with my treatment, I just want it all to go away. I am in pain all the time unless I am asleep. I have pain medicine but I hate taking it, it makes me nauseated. Sorry for the whining intro. If any of you have any suggestions, please give 'em to me!
[QUOTE=wendyr]Hi, I'm Wendy. I am 47 years old but sometimes feel as if I am 97... I just feel so sick most of the time, like I have the flu or something. Hurt allover, nauseated. [/quote] Hi Wendy. I think it is safe to say that many of us can empathize with that!
[quote]My RA is seronegative. I am a registered nurse and my symptoms really makes no sense to me...I am really frustrated with my treatment, I just want it all to go away. I am in pain all the time unless I am asleep. [/quote] And with that as well.
I can only suggest that you read everything you can find about autoimmune illnesses; standard and alternative therapies; nutritional supplements; pain management; the benefits and drawbacks of different exercise routines; and develop a strong support system.
Check out the various discussions taking place in the various segments of the forum and join in when and where you are comfortable.
I am sorry you are experience the doldrums of the disease but glad you are able to express your feelings and your frustrations: that is important.
Con brio. Happ
Welcome abord Wendy - whining is encouraged in here - it helps :) Take care and have fun on the Board ~~ CathyThank you Happ for welcoming me, sorry to be so late in replying. I had an awful weekend with lots of pain and my BF being upset with me for not wanting to do anything. He just had back surgery and the house is a mess and I just really couldn't do anything about it at the time. I know you know what I mean. I am so glad that I stumbled across this place where I can say exactly how I feel and no one complains about what I say! :)Thank you for the welcome, Cathy. I think whining helps too! I am having fun here, thank you again, Wendy
Welcome Wendy,
Glad to see you posting. I find this to be a very thearaputic place when its not a Zoo. Even then its still nice to visit. Just wanted to say Hi.
Jay