Hi, new diagnosis and new here...

JB85

Hi all, 

My name is Jimmy and I've very recently (finally) been diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis.

I'm 37 with 2 very young children, and up until 2 years ago I was very fit and active, so this has really hit me like a ton of bricks (as I'm sure it does every one). I've started on methotrexate (which sucks) and had a number of guided injections in my feet to try and bring it under control.

I'm struggling with accepting the diagnosis and figured I'd proactively look to find a forum where I can comfortably discuss with others - in the hope that I can adjust/accept my new normal (whatever that is). 

Anyways, thanks, 

Jimmy 

Breacon

Hi Jimmy

Welcome, I'm sorry to hear of your recent diagnosis, & I'm sure, it must have come as quite a shock.

It is difficult excepting your condition at first,  but I hope your treatment works well for you,,

Would you mind me asking, why it took so long to get a diagnosis.

Also has anyone in the family or you, have psoriasis.???

Breacon

Ps

There is lots of help on the forum, with regards to benefits etc etc, should you need it.
Everyone on here, are very helpful.

JB85

Hi Breacon, 

Thanks for the warm welcome. 

I'm not sure why it took so long if I'm honest. I was diagnosed with psoriasis in 2015 and was referred to MSK/physio in 2019 with plantar fasciitis and foot pain making it difficult to walk. I then had dactylitis last Jan and was finally referred to rheaumo last Oct, with my appointment/diagnosis this January.

My nan had severe psoriasis but no one besides that.

  

Sandy_123

Hi @JB85 welcome to scopes forum 
It is difficult coming to terms with diagnosis and ways to adapt. Especially if it makes a person less active.
This is a good place to be able discus and get understanding from. 
Have you spoke with your gp about alternative meds and seen a physio. Did the injections help 

JB85

Hi Sandy, 

To be fair, I've only been on the methotrexate a month, the naproxen 2 months - I had an appt today with the nurse who said they'd review it in 2 more months. I've not seen a physio yet, nor been referred. Would I ask my GP to refer?

The injections have helped and massively reduced the pain, although I have started to feel the "burn" again - although if its minimal that's fine! I just want to be active and able enough that I can run about and do activities with the kids really - not after running marathons/climbing mountains any more! 

vikingqueen

      Give the methotrexate time to start working, it can take up to 12 weeks so don't give up. It can take a while to get the right medication.

       You will have quite a few dark days at the beginning of your journey but trust me things will get easier, your rheumatology team are there to help you so don't be afraid to ring them, no question is too small. 

      I hope you feel better very soon.