Tim's diagnosis is very likely rheumatoid arthritis (his test results aren't conclusive enough to be 100%, but the other things it could be would be treated basically the same way, at least initially, so for all intents and purposes, it's RA). And I'm glad he has a diagnosis, so he can start treatment, but I'm telling you guys because I don't want to tell him, because I want to be supportive -- I *am* freaking out moderately about it.
I mean, it *is* good he has a diagnosis. Starting treatment now will limit the damage to his joints (and there is already erosive damage that can't be reversed). But Jesus H. Christ, you guys, the treatment is a fucking CANCER medication. It's a very very very low dose than is given for cancer, but still. (If it doesn't work well enough, then he moves on to an injectable drug that I'm hoping won't be ridiculously expensive. But one step at a time, right?)
And it's not just a chronic condition, it's an autoimmune one. That blows. I was really hoping for gout.
And in the category of Life Sure Is Funny, his ex-GF (the one whose daughter recently died) has RA. And since Tim and his ex are still friendly, I think she's going to be a SUPER big help to us as we figure all this out.
Good luck, Steph and Tim. You know what it is, and it's treatable. That's a lot.
Yeah, it's just a big life change. Not as scary as cancer or heart disease, obviously. But still just big and, yeah, kind of scary right now.
What's the difference between Rheumatoid and Osteo arthritis?
ND, that's sad and infuriating. I'm sorry.
Steph, autoimmune disorders blow, but having a diagnosis is good. Having someone around who can give him some help figuring things out is good too.
My mom had a cancer treatment for an autoimmune disease, and it worked great! For what that's worth. She did need someone to give her a ride to the appointments, but that will be less of a problem for you, I imagine.
PS: I've been referring to the pain in the ball of my foot as gout, even though I am 90% sure it's not gout, because it just feels funny to say! Although probably not funny to actually have....
And we've passed 2000 cases. Such a very angry customer base.
I'm glad Tim has a Dx, even if it is scary to face together, you will face it Steph. I'm glad he has you.
And ND, ugh with a side of Some People Are Fucked UP and I'm so sorry you have to deal with her. I'm not surprised she doesn't even see the awful of what she's done, as so often people who are the worst seem to think their behavior is completely acceptable. But ugh!
What's the difference between Rheumatoid and Osteo arthritis?
Rheumatoid is an autoimmune disease, where the joint damage is caused by the immune system being a jerk and attacking the joints. In osteoarthritis the joint damage is mechanical, from plain old wear and tear.
My mom had a cancer treatment for an autoimmune disease, and it worked great! For what that's worth.
That *is* super good to know! I know methotrexate can work really well for RA, but it's still freaky that it's a damn cancer drug.
PS: I've been referring to the pain in the ball of my foot as gout, even though I am 90% sure it's not gout, because it just feels funny to say! Although probably not funny to actually have....
It told Tim I'm still going to refer to him as my gouty husband, because that's hilarious to me.
