Just diagnosed with PSA
I was just diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis, was put on 15 days of Prednisone and felt pain free for the first time in about 30 years. It was such a blessing to be pain free but I finished the Prednisone a couple of weeks ago and the pains in my body have come back. I am scheduled to see my doctor in a few days to decide on which oral biologic I am going to need to take.
I have Scoliosis and have lived with moderate pain for so many years but I was determined that I would NEVER let it stop me from doing the things that I wanted to do. My family calls me "the energizer bunny" because I am always on the go but this diagnosis has really thrown me for a loop.
Researching the biologics I am finding that so many of the side effects as frightening but the alternative is even more frightening. Trying to stay positive and put my faith in my doctors and most importantly God!
Try not to get too far down the rabbit hole reading up on side effects. The vast majority of these drugs have side effects that are easily dealt with, and often go away eventually. Many of the published "possible side effects" are simply what have been observed in a wide and varying population with differing degrees of comorbidities, as well as other unrelated medical conditions that could affect a negative outcome from drug therapy. By far, the majority of people on DMARDs and b-DMARDs experience little in the way of major side effects. And, your doctor is going to schedule labs for you on a regular basis, timeline dependent upon the drug, to check for anything out of the ordinary. Stay positive, and be patient while your doctors sort out what they feel to be the best medication for you.
Eric, thank you for your message. Between the diagnosis and having to decide on which biologic to go with it has all been somewhat overwhelming. I am a VERY active person and the thought that some disease is going to slow me down or stop me is heartbreaking to me.
Stay active; that's important. If you have to occasionally slow down a bit, or take a few breaks, that's fine. I run; 5k, 10k, and half marathon distance. I cycle on off days, and I do strength and flexibility training. I'm actually more fit now than I was before having this disease, because it is now more important than ever for me to remain active.
Eric, that is awesome. I would be lucky if I could walk a mile lol. I do have an elliptical that I am hoping that I can get on this year. Most of my activity right now is tending my small backyard farm during the Spring and Summer, doing the usual household chores and learning how to do woodworking from my husband. Have a blessed day
Hi
! Welcome to our site! I'm so sorry that you're experiencing pain once again, I truly hope you're next biologic will be able to help you and give you the relief you deserve💗 I also think staying active in any way possible would be a great way to help your body! I think your small backyard & chores are a wonderful way to stay active without pushing yourself too much. I also think the elliptical is a great way to stay active as well!! Just remember to treat your body with kindness & try not to push yourself farther than you can go!! And please always know that the PsA Community is here for you and cares about you!!💓 Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or even just to vent! 😀
I'll be keeping you in my prayers✨ - Abigail, Team Member
