PsA and The Ever Evolving Saga

I am 60 years old and have lived with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis most of my life. I have tried and been on almost every medication there is. But the reality is, although medications help, this disease just keeps progressing.

The impact of progression

Three years ago I had to go on disability because the arthritis was so debilitating and I was constantly getting sick from being around people because of my immunosuppressed body. I also had a total knee replacement that year. My other knee needs replaced but I am just not ready for that.

Right now I have issues walking because the PsA has created a large bone spur on my heel which is shredding my Achilles’ tendon. I was supposed to have surgery on my foot and heel this past week but it was canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak - which I totally understand.

Additional conditions

Earlier this year, I had 2 weeks of severe pain on the left side of my head, ear, throat, and tongue. My PCP diagnosed me with Trigeminal Neuralgia. After seeing a pain specialist, a neurologist, and getting an MRI, my neurologist feels my symptoms are due to my PsA.

This year I also have dealt with pleural effusions in my lungs due to the PsA.

Finding gratitude

I am thankful to my rheumatologist for trying new meds and also prescribing pain meds as needed. My salvation has been my family, my faith, and my hobbies, especially my love for painting. I know that we all have crosses to bear in life, and this is mine.

I am able to see the blessings in every day and am thankful for the “better” days. During this pandemic, please take care of yourself, self distance, and count your blessings.