Life changes with PsA

I was diagnosed with psoriasis in 1981 and I was 21. It started out with lesions on my waist and stomach area. It soon spread to my scalp. By the time I was 25, I had 70% of my body covered in lesions. I started doing Sun beds and that helped a lot. Fast forward 10 years. Biologics came out and I was prescribed them. They were extremely helpful. But for me, it was a little late. My connective tissue had decided to start pulling away from my bones. And arthritis had set in on most of my joints and spine.

Surgeries with psoraitic arthritis

Within the next 12 years, I would go on to have many surgeries. Bilateral shoulder reconstruction, elbow reconstruction, carpal tunnel release, cervical fusion that looks as though there’s a door hinge in my neck, holding two cadaver bones between three cervical bones, (to replace the ruptured discs)together; trigger thumb and finger, total knee replacement, flap tear in my hip, two tears in my gluteus medial and will be getting my other knee replaced soon.

The impact of fatigue

The fatigue that goes hand in hand with this disease is over the top. I’ve had to figure out how to do things differently because I cannot sit or stand for long periods of time. When making plans for staying out past 7 pm, I have to use meds that my doctor has given me to help with fatigue.

Life changes with PsA

Between the recoveries from all the surgeries and the fatigue accompanied by joint pain, life as I knew it is over! It’s very difficult to come to terms with knowing that you are basically handicapped. I know life could be worse and others do have it worse, but it’s a hard pill to swallow. You have to work with your doctor as well as your body to see what helps you live your best life. If you don’t figure it out, depression will visit you.

Just be gentle with yourself and know that you have a right to feel sorry for yourself, just not for very long!

I have been very lucky to have an amazing support system with my husband and children.

Hopefully, you all do too ❤️