RA is a threat to my career

[GN679]

hello does anyone here feel that their RA conditions could cause them their career one day ? I am a full time graphic designer and my RA conditions is really getting the best of me! am missing hours of work (especially in the morning) due to morning stiffness.

a week ago, i had very bad severe pain & swelling on my right knee which lasted for 2days. now am having severe pain wiht my left shoulder, arm & wrist. my left thumb was swollen as well (side of it) now that the swelling on my left wrist has gone down but i still can't fully my left arm. also my left shoulder blade is killing me too!

i can't even enjoy a good night sleep!.........my mind is wide awake worrying about my tomorrow & what will i do if my boss gets my replacement for missing out on those hours, even though, they're aware of my conditions.

am just being stressed out trying to figure out my next move or next RA friendly job...etc etc!

i've given up on "all the good food" and been taking meds prescribed to me by our local medical practitioner.

i just don't wanna be on meds for the rest of life but i have no choice!

[HappykindaGal]

Have you been diagnosed for long? I am self employed and for a while, I had to pay someone else to run my business and take a back seat. After a lengthy trial and error of different drugs, I’m now back and absolutely fine.

If what you’re taking isn’t working, call your Rheumy as the last thing they will want is for someone to lose their livelihood. Would low dose steroids help until you find the right combo? Food changes did nothing for me really. Keep speaking to your boss and perhaps see a counsellor so you can eventually look to the positives and enjoy life again without worrying keeping you awake at night.

[GN679 in reply to HappykindaGal]

Hi Cwendyn

yes i got diagnosed in 2017. I don't think we have any rheumatologist here in Fiji because they haven't referred me to any all this years. i am going to contact a counsellor this afternoon to book an appointment but before that I am getting my full medical report done today. Thank you so much for taking your time to share your experience and advice.

[HappykindaGal in reply to GN679]

I didn’t realise you’re in Fiji. That’s so difficult for you if you have t been able to see a Rheumy.

[helixhelix]

There is a member called Jules13 who is also a graphic designer and had a dreadful time at diagnosis. But things are now hugely better. I will try to find a post she wrote about the journey she had.

CVwendyn’s advice I completely agree with too. Don’t despair, talk to your medical team.

[Hidden]

Hi GN, I see you’re from Fiji, so welcome. I’m from Australia, so not sure how your national health scheme works, or how any medical leave from your work functions

I interpret what you’ve written as - you haven’t seen a rheumatologist yet? If at all possible, you need to get your local medical practitioner to find you someone who specialises in rheumatology. Some medical practitioners (GPs ??) can prescribe the appropriate medication - what are you taking? Let us know.

Being in a situation where your job is threatened, your body is trying to kill you and your mind won’t shut up, is very stressful. I know, because I’ve been there.

So, take a deep breath.

Your job requires skills that are obviously difficult when RA causes joint to be dysfunctional and painful. If you don’t have sick leave or any other kind of leave that would allow you PAID time off, then you need to ask your medical practitioner to prescribe you some medication to get you through this - usually it would be low-dose prednisone - this reduces inflammation and swelling, which leads to pain reduction. However, it’s only a TEMPORARY measure - but it would get you functioning, so you could work.

Some sort of stress management is important too. Either counselling or try some of the Apps available for smartphones - for example Calm or Smiling Mind - a few minutes relaxation whenever you need to, is remarkably helpful for shutting the worried mind down.

Do keep in touch, none of us can make it better, but we can offer virtual hugs and support, cheers Deb

[GN679]

Hi Deb thank you so much for your insight. I hope to see a rheumatologist soon (if i can find a local one) but I'll keep looking & ask again.

[Jimbo64]

I was a delivery driver for years with a well known company and I had to give it up because of RA&OA about 23 years a go lm now Doard

[BoneyC]

I managed 22 years of work (30 years after dx) but RA did cost me my legal career, following neurosurgery on my cervical spine.

[Hessie5]

Hi GN -sorry to hear of your work concerns. Try to not let this stress you.

As RA flares gives us no warning It is extremely upsetting when you have to call work to say can't get in! I have been off again this week due to bad flares..hands/ankle, gosh did RA get me good. I had a paid for event this week and could not make it. I felt so darn guilty. But my health is more important.

What helps....

1- HR are aware of my diagnosis. I work flexy days from home/office.

2 - My boss is kept in the loop. I tag in monthly one to one meetings to discuss my progress. (He has been great)

3 - I speak to my Rheumy about getting steroids. Usually Prednisone, this helps me to function. (when it wears off that's the frustration.)

4 - During these pain days, know that they won't last. This is your window to rest rest rest. Eat well. Light stretching. Epsom Salt baths. Relax and be gentle. No stressing.

Wishing you well during this time. Know you are not alone 😌 - Hessie

[GN679]

Hi Hessie5.......thanks for sharing. Our HR is aware of my diagnosis as well but unfortunately there is no option of "work flexy days from home/home" here.