Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause inflammation of the tissue around the joints, as well as in other organs in the body. Autoimmune diseases are illnesses that occur when the body's tissues are mistakenly attacked by their own immune system.
I was diagnosed with RA at 38, though I'd had minor symptoms for several years before. Because ra is systemic, I've also developed Sjogren's, interstitial cystitis and recurring shingles. The last few years have been interesting!
I currently take Orencia, methotrexate, and plaquenil for my ra. This seems to be working, sort of, for now. (I've also taken Enbrel, Remicade and Arava.)
Trying to find balance with sometimes very limited energy is my current challenge.
RA has taught me, in an even deeper way, to take one day at a time.
Read my RA onset story in this post: Invisible Chronic Illness Week
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