Me and My Diagnosis

My name is Laurie...I am a 43 year old wife and stay at home mom to two boys. I was just diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis. I started having pain in my left wrist the first week of January. Then it starting swelling...into my hand and fingers. Next came pain in both knees...followed by, you guessed it...swelling. Then the feet and toes. I had seen an internal medicine doctor who referred me to an orthopedic doctor who referred me to a Rheumatologist. The wait for these doctors is unreal! I ended up traveling twice as far just to get in a month and a half earlier than the closest RA doctor.

February 23, 2010...My diagnosis date. Mixed feelings. Didn't want to leave the office without answers, but didn't want to be saddled with a chronic condition either. I have a wonderful doctor...very thorough and knowledgeable. I am taking Prednisone and Methotrexate. Without the Prednisone, I wouldn't make it through the day. As the Methotrexate starts to do it's job, I will be weened from the Prednisone.

How has this changed my life? I haven't been able to get to my basement family room for almost a month now. The pain and swelling prevents me from using the steps. I have friends and family members who have told me it is probably best I can't get there...2 boys and a husband...you get the picture! I also have a hard time rising from a standard height chair. I can't stand or walk for very long periods of time. Driving is difficult depending on the level of pain in my wrist.

My future plans are to continue on the treatment prescribed. I plan to start water aerobics, and am looking forward to warmer weather to begin walking again. I want to use this blog to help me journal my feelings, my triggers, and my progress. I'm writing purely for myself...I have no experience writing. This is a place for me to vent, laugh, cry and celebrate even the smallest victories. If you are reading this and have experience with PA and want to offer hints, they're welcome.