Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

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Melinda56 08/11/2013

I am new to this. I am really scared of getting a diagnosis of RA. I go to my rheum Dr. tomorrow to hear the results of my blood work. Her note to me said that my RA factor was high as well as my ccp. I'm scared for my life as it is now. I'm sorry but I needed to tell someone. Thank you.

trishcorsi 08/12/2013

I know its frightening as hell, but you need to know so that you can start fixing it. I was frightened to death by the diagnosis, but relieved to find out I wasn't a hypochondriac, which is what I was beginning to feel like I was becoming. So knowledge is power and we are all here for you. This forum is the best thing that has happened to me since my diagnosis In Oct. Wishing you only the best. Trish

camba 08/12/2013

Also before you go think of a list of questions you would want the answers to if this is a positive diagnosis. eg. What drugs? Side effects? Regular blood testing? In your experience what advice would you give re progression, possible remission, work etc etc. You will have more relating to you specifically. A support person could write down answers so you can face and listen.

Good luck.

deleted_user 08/12/2013

Melinda 56...everyone has vrey good advice since you are new ..wishing you a ton of luck and keeping my fingers crossed you dont have RA ....i got a letter sent to me in the mail saying this is RA ...and i was alone when i read it ...so make sure you have someone with you like RASally said ..it helps to not be alone ..
Gods speed to you .

bluedogs2 08/12/2013

Melina56
Can you share with us how your rheumy visit went ? We are all here for you and are willing to help as best we can.

Be well and Peace to your heart
Bluedogs2

KiddoGal 08/14/2013

Yep, being scared is natural - I think most of us were and are still scared of this disease and what can happen. For me, once I got on the meds my RA became under control. I have no pain, I can still do most things. Be patient, it may take a while to get the right meds to work for you. I still run a business, take care of my ailing husband, bowl, go for long walks (2-4 miles) swim, etc. On the negative side, I know I have RA everyday, some days I do get tired, too many trips up the stairs in one day can bother me, and most days I see my hands are a bit swollen. But I have no joint damage. I am 59 years old and the last two weeks I have had my grandchildren with me - we did an all day trip to Knott's Berry Farm and I got thru it fine. Yes, tired at the end, but was that because of my RA or my age??? I have been active on this site for nearly 4 years now and it has helped tremendously. Hang in there Melinda56!!!

Christine26 08/15/2013

Hi Melinda, welcome to DS but so sorry you are here. It is frightening to have the diagnosis of RA. Try to not be scared for your life, instead try to live your life with this disease the best you can. I wish you well. Please take one day at a time.

sammyo1 08/15/2013

Everyone gave excellent advice.
I was scared & cried like a baby when my RA called with the DX.
Education & support are IMO so important.
These people are wonderful let us help you.
Stay strong,
Sammy

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