Interesting statistic about Rheumatoid Arthritis

[Carebear]

Hi everyone,

In November I spend four terrifically educational days at an Inflammatory Arthritis Program, set in the Rehab Department of our teaching hospital.

I wish each of you could have been there as well because it gave me some much helpful information, as well as confidence that I can manage this Sjogren's.  I left with a physical therapy and occupational therapy plan as well which will befollowed up in two months.

Anyway, back to the statistic about RA.  The Rheumy who spoke with us said that your life expectancy with untreated Rheumatoid Arthritis is 51 years.  The reason being that untreated RA can cause inflammation in your heart.  If treated, your life expectancy is normal.  This just tells us how important it is to get treatment quickly. 

[Luna]

Im so glad the time spent there was worth it. Thank you for this information. I had not heard it and it is important.

Luna

[Joe S.]

Then I guess that I am living on borrowed time.

[Carebear]

Oh, Joe.  You make me smile.   

I didn't want to sound doom and gloom.  They are working on an average, with a very large population base.

[Carolina]

Yes, Carebear,

RA used to be a terrible diagnosis.

And it's still no walk in the park.

But there are medications that really can do the best possible, and slow or stop the progression.

Which is what we want for every condition of course.

Perhaps someday............

Hugs

Elaine

[Joe S.]

I have a small understanding of statistics a probabilities. That is why I included the   We all have good and bad days with these ailments. I have had to work with alternative therapies to manage my group of ailments since the mid 70's. I have recently found some treatments that I wish I would have known about back then. If I would have I may have postponed the advent of Sjogren's for a number of years yet and I would not be experiencing the damaging effects of severe RA.

[harlin]

I just went to see my Rheumy and she was very pleased with my progress. They added Horizant, a timed released Neurontin and it seemed to be working. I have had about 6 weeks of less pain and more energy. This week I have not felt as well. Pain is creaping back on me. I was awake most of the night with pain everywhere. I hope I am not going into another flair. My Rheumy thought I might be going into remission last week but I am afraid "here we go again". I know I have been over doing it with all the Christmas things going on. Hopefully afterwards I can get back to a calmer life.
My RA is being treated, so hopefully I will be here awhile.

hugs and prayers, harlin