Newly diagnosed this summer

Hi Heather,

I was DX this summer too, so i'm new to all this stuff too.  I can definitely relate to what you're saying.  matter of fact, i think we all can.  it hurts, no joking about that.  I'm on my 2nd combo of drugs, and for the last 5 wks, i've feel 'normal' again.  so much, that i'm not consumed with my RA like i was in the beginning.  I didn't have the support from my husband, and i felt alone.  I had suicidal thoughts during my worst bouts with the pain.  man oh man, i wished i could just die in my sleep....when i could sleep.  BUT life is better, in just a few short months, my meds are working.  i still have minor pain some days (but certainly not excruciating) and alot of stiffness if i sit too long...but i can do more than i could a few months ago and i'm rejoicing in that.  i used to lie awake at night wondering what was gonna hurt the next day when i got up.  just know that this website is WONDERFUL and you're not alone.  we're all on the same ride as you are.  be your own advocate to your doctor.  be knowledgeable about this disease too, it helps.  it's not going away and we're all stuck with it.  but, we can't let it take control either..good luck and i hope you find the encouragement on this website, like i did!

Heather,

Hi there. Just wanted to let you know that your not alone.  Ra hurts, and I can relate to what your saying.  When your sitting for a while, or lying down, your joints get stiff.

and the pain...ouch...its not fun. 

 My hips hurt for years, could not stand or sit for more than 45 mins until i started hurting!  The pain was unbareable.  I just took pain killers and with time, I had to keep a cane handy...just to lean on..to keep the pressure off my hips and back.  It helps.  But I try not to stay in one position for a while, if i can help it.    Take some pain meds if you know your going to sit or stand for a while. 

Now, i am on MTX which seems to be helping the hips....yeahhhhh

you just got to keep moving....good luck....

Hey Heather,

I was also diagnosed over the summer, and can relate to everything you said!  I am on Methotrexate, but haven't expirienced any real relief.  I hurt and get stiff sitting or lying down.  Walking is, by far, the worst part.  I have trouble standing or walking for even short periods, and always have to mentally gauge any trips out of the house by the amount of standing or walking I might have to do (then decide if it will be worth it).  I am 34, but walk like I am 94!  Thankfully my close friends and family understand what I am going through, but others tell me things like, "But you were just diagnosed, I wonder why walking is so hard for you!" as if I am choosing to have my life altered in such a miserable way!

I feel for you, and hope things get better for you soon!

Hi Heather!

I remember getting that stiffness even after sitting 5 minutes, before I was on Enbrel.  I still have some pain from certain joints, but not that overwhelming fatigue and stiffness (well, sometimes I have fatigue...).  Hope you start getting some relief, or have something added to the MTX which will help!  I take some Celebrex with the Enbrel, not necessarily every day, but as I need it - ranging from twice a week to every day!

Best wishes,

Ellen

57 yrs old, Enbrel & Celebrex (100 mg), sometimes add Tylenol for pain, cyclobenzabrine (Flexeril) for muscle spasms & sleep at night.