Hi, my name's Keith & I'm 39. Was diagnosed a year ago after my middle finger was swollen over a number of months after an accident. By the time they pin-pointed that is was PsA, erosion had already taken place & now I have roughly 60% less use of that finger (i.e. it doesn't bend like it should). Have also had two steroid injections in the joint which has helped taking the swelling down but not affected movement.
I was prescribed Methotraxate in May 2010 but have yet to take it due to my fears over it's general toxicity. Instead I take Extra Strength Cod Liver Oil, Green Lipped Mussel Powder and a product called Arthrit-Eze.
Right now I am fully mobile but have pain (but no visible swelling) in both ankles, (mild pain) in left elbow & shoulder, stiffness/pain in right knee, mild stiffness and pain in my right middle finger & thumb and stiffness in my jaw. Nothing that I can't live with right now,
Basically my Rheumatologist is keen for me to start on Methotraxate but I'm in the process of going private & seeing a new one for a 2nd opinion as the dept. at my local hospital is pretty poor in my opinion (Royal Free, London).
I'm terrified of becoming disabled & not being able to play with my son as he grows up but right now I can live with the joint discomfort whilst not taking the 'toxic' drugs. Am I doing the right thing or is it just going to make things worse in the long run. I know everyone's course with this disease is different & levels of damage vary.
Any info or advice gratefully accepted!
Thanks!From my limited knoledge you wanna get on meds early so joint damage doesnt start. This said i waited till the pain made me almost quit my job before i went to doc, xrays showed no joint damage. Fo rme at the time there was no question relay if i was going to take MTX altough my wife and i took a week while i took mobic for inflamation and talked about it, I did this to make her feel bettter about me taking MTX. To me you will know when its time to step up and take the toxic stuff. I once read a study that showed the average american has 104 chemical toxins found in there body from foods cleaners we use mainly house hold chemicals. My numbers may be alittle off. Hope you find your answer.