If you’ve been diagnosed with arthritis or a related chronic illness, more than likely you’ve experienced some sort of meltdown. Depending on the stage of your diagnosis, you probably feel as though you ‘melt’ on a regular basis. Routinely, over the past 24 years, I’ve found myself shouting those infamous words from the Wicked Witch in the Wizard of Oz, “I’m m-e-l-t-i-n-g …”
Arthritis is a complicated disease! Although in many cases it’s treatable, it demands attention and strikes without warning.
For those who are newly diagnosed, heed the warning. Prepare yourself for the roller coaster ride of your life – since arthritis is chronic, maybe I should say, “… the roller coaster ride for ‘the rest of your life.’” Strap yourself in and hold on tight, there’s no getting off of this one!
My intent is not to add fear to your life, but to arm you in the battles ahead. Being prepared is half of the fight and knowing you’re not in this alone eases the anticipation for what lies ahead.
Whether you’re an arthritis veteran or just diagnosed, you must take control, understand your options and educate yourself with dependable resources. Communicating with others who’ve been there is just as important as talking to your medical care providers. Building a strong support system is the key to surviving any long-term illness.
In my blog, “Another Loss!” (10/21/10), Mary Lou, a 12-year rheumatoid arthritis veteran writes, “I’m scared to death of all these meds and am having a total melt down about it!”
My friend, you are not alone! Changing or adding to a treatment plan is scary! Considering the side effects of individual high-risk medications can be overwhelming in its self. But when using them in conjunction with other treatments, it’s nearly impossible to predict all of the possibilities.
I’ve addressed these very issues in past blogs. To read about my personal experiences and to see a list of tips related to drug toxicity levels, see my blogs, “Monitoring Your Meds” (8/26/10) and “Your List of Meds” (8/11/10).
A reliable medical team consists of those who are educated, experienced and trustworthy. It includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, patients and others who have knowledge of the seriousness without being biased. Talk to those who’ve been there to gain knowledge, not necessarily to compare. Always remember, arthritis is like a snowflake – every one is different.
Have you experienced meltdowns as a result of your diagnosis? How do you tolerate them and what advice would you give to cope with the overwhelming emotions?
I've heard that commercial where the announcer says that with RA there is the life you lead and the life you wish you had. Boy, it that one ever the truth!
I'm the Mary Lou mentioned in the blog and after about a week of crying about it and being mad at myself for being such a baby,I finally picked up my new prescription. I think I am going to hear "we need to increase the dose" during my next doctors visit so I am trying to prepare myself for that.
My meltdowns have all been pretty much about medication. But I have also had the "what if?" anxiety when thinking about the future. I let myself cry, mostly when I'm alone, and when I know I can take a nap afterwards because it exhausts me! Then I try to move on. If it is pain, it does pass or at least it calms down for awhile. I try to keep in mind that others have it so much worse than I do. That is a big reality check for me. Juveniel RA.. I cannot imagine being so young and dealing with everything that RA dishes out. I have no deformity. I have a great doctor who has witnessed many tears and listens to what I have to say and I can tell her anything. I don't always feel that my friends and family understand but I have learned who I can talk to and who can't handle it.
And having my feelings validated in this blog has made a difference. Thank you!
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