Guest guest Posted May 30, 2004 Report Share Posted May 30, 2004 Welcome, ! Many of us can relate to your story and to what you are feeling. In the beginning, it is difficult to get an accurate diagnosis. The blood tests don't mean as much as your history and clinical presentation. Did you have any x-rays done? Taking care of yourself would include the things most everyone does for being as healthy as they can be - no smoking, reaching or maintaining a normal weight, eating a balanced, healthy diet, and exercising regularly. If it is indeed RA, being on a DMARD is essential to control the inflammation and slow or stop the progression of the disease. It doesn't have to be a biologic. If you do wish to use DMARDs you can't afford, there are many patient assistance programs available that you may qualify for: HelpingPatients.org http://www.helpingpatients.org/index.cfm I'll tell you where to go! Mayo Clinic in Rochester http://www.mayoclinic.org/rochester s Hopkins Medicine http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org [ ] hello, new here > Hello, > > My name is . I'm new to the list, and am newly diagnosed with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis. > > I'm feeling overwhelmed, and more than a little frightened, at this point, at having a chronic disease. Also, I'm a potter/ceramic artist, and am concerned about my ability to continue with that long-term. I want to, and I guess what I'd like is support and information on keeping joints as healthy as possible. > > Diet? Exercise? Drugs? Alternatives? I'm wondering about all of them, of course. I'm doing quite a bit of reading, but am also looking forward to learning from the folks on this list. > > Kind regards, > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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