Monday, February 7, 2011

Positive

....was the result of my tests for Rheumatoid Arthritis. I called Dr. Reddy's office this morning (his nurse had called me Friday and said to call her Monday morning.) She told me my Vitamin D is low (which I already knew) and how much to take. Then I talked to the receptionist who said they actually had an opening today at 2:00. I was really hoping to get in today or tomorrow so I wouldn't have to take more time off work, so I was really excited. Anyway, he said one of the blood tests was positive for rheumatoid arthritis. He showed me the x-rays of my hands, and how around the knuckles and joints, it was dark (instead of white like the rest of the bone.) He said that meant there was inflammation. It doesn't really bother me all the time though, and when it does, it's not too bad, so he said it's pretty mild right now. Since we caught it early he's pretty optimistic that it can be pretty well controlled with medication, and hopefully not advance too much or too fast. He gave me a prescription for a medication which I can fill as soon as I get an ok from an opthamologist that my eyes are fine (I guess you can't take it if you have eye problems.) So I have an appointment on February 22 (my birthday :). He said it takes a month or two to notice improvement, but should help with the swelling and pain, and also give me more energy. Low vitamin D and rheumatoid arthritis can cause fatigue, so hopefully I will be getting some energy back soon.

But I'm feeling postive about it right now. I've been praying that I could be ok with whatever happened, and I really feel like it's all going to be fine. My stomach is about the same. It felt a lot better yesterday, but today it has not been as great again. I'm going to give it a couple weeks and see what happens. Wait until I've taken the Vitamin D and antibiotics for awhile, and then if I'm still feeling the same...well I'm not sure actually, I'll do something :). I will have to call Dr. Smith in a couple days because he wants me to call him once a week, so we'll see what he says too. Anyway, just wanted to give a quick update. Really I am feeling pretty positive today though. It's all going to be ok. :)

6 comments:

Dani said...

So sorry Jill. I guess it's good they caught it early, but still crappy. I like your cartoon - it made me smile :)

sayda said...

Aw Jill... Hang in there my dear little friend.

Halfords said...

I'm glad you're getting some answers. But I hope you continue to feel better!

Lana Boehler said...

Jill, you are such an amazing person. Always so positive and happy. Such a great example. :) If you ever need anything please call me. Love ya

Jake, Tayli, Jayli, Kynli & Charli said...

Jill you are so tough. I've never heard of someone so young that had RA. You must just be strong enough to endure all these health battles. Happy late birthday btw! Stop by my blog for a suprise. :)

Anonymous said...

I love you Jill. You are so amazing through your trials. I get strength from you. Stay strong and know you are always in my prayers.
Aunt Bev