caret icon Back to all discussions

Hi there and new to the group

Hi all,
Sounds like a very familiar story after having reads some of the posts, but am 44 and was officially diagnosed with PsA about 12 months ago. Since a young child I have had numerous debilitating issues with my joints (most often spontaneously). At about the age of 25 I first was referred to a Rheumatologist for chronic tenosynovitis and osteoarthritis in my hands and wrists. These issues have progressively worsened over time and since then I have had ongoing frozen shoulder syndrome, numerous bouts of bursitis throughout my body (currently in my elbows - mega ouch!!) and various other joint problems. In my early 40's I starting having major issues with my hips and lower spine, which prompted me to start thinking and researching more about my condition and lead me to wonder whether I had some sort of Spondylitis-type disease. After seeking out a new Rheumatologist, he asked if I had ever had any issues with my skin. My initial reaction was no, but then I recalled that I had had a long bout of dandruff some 12 months prior. Turns out my long list of issues = PsA. Am currently on sulfasalazine and prednisolone, and like all of you have my good and not so good days where I feel like 88 rather than 44. Unfortunately, my 88-days occur much more frequently than my 44's of late - but I am not the type to make a fuss of myself and most often tend to soldier on. Figure if I don't use it, I'm gonna lose it quicker. Hoping for the good over the bad for you all!
Tim

  1. Hi Tim,
    Welcome to the community! Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us. I'm very glad that the second Rheumatologist asked the right questions and that you got the right diagnosis. If you're still having issues with your scalp, feel free to check out our sister site, PlaquePsoriasis.com, for psoriasis-related articles.
    How are the sulfasalazine and prednisolone working out for you? Have they made the inflammation a little more manageable?
    Warm wishes,
    -Victoria, Community Moderator

    1. Thanks for your message Vicki. I think the sulfasalazine and prednisolone have indeed helped, but I have had increasing and more prolonged bouts of inflammatory-related issues over the last couple of months. Thankfully I have an appointment with my Rheumatologist in the next couple of weeks, so will no doubt discuss my ongoing treatment options with him then.
      Best wishes
      Tim

      1. , best of luck at your appointment! I hope everything goes well and that you can start to see some real changes in your inflammation levels.
        -Victoria, Community Moderator

    Please read our rules before posting.