For many, many years I have suffered from pain and many other symptoms that would come and go. I frequently visited my primary care physician with mainly one complaint: PAIN. But the pain never seemed to stay in one place. It was sometimes in my joints, yet my entire body hurt. I also experienced muscle pain, sensitivity to both sunlight and indoor lights, and severe fatique. I was simply told again and again that I was not a spring chicken anymore and had to expect aches and pains now and then.
After more than five years of return visits with complaints of various pain, my doctor finally decided to follow up with more extensive lab work. When my results came back abnormal, I was referred to a Rheumatologist. Then, at the age of 47, I was diagnosed with lupus, Sjogren's syndrome and osteoporosis. Thank God I am not crazy. I was so thankful to be able to put a name to illness! Since my diagnosis almost two years ago, I have not gone into remission. I continued to work as long as I could. Eventually, I was advised to take medical retirment because I could no longer concentrate or stay awake for a full 8 hours. Having to leave my job has been very difficult for me to accept.
The lupus continues to flare and the medications can't seem to get it under control. I take Plaquenil and Imuran, and heavy-duty pain pills. As a result of the Sjogren's, I've had "plucton plugs" put in both of my eyes to help with the dryness. I take Fosamax and calcium with vitamin D for the osteoporosis, Synthroid for the thyroid condition, and Paxil for depression. I try to stay busy, but I tire so very quickly. Life is just not the same for me anymore.
I am married, with five children and one grandchild. I used to be so energetic, but now, even the smallest tasks seem extremely strenuous. I am thankful for the full support of my husband and kids. They give me the will to go on. I also see a therapist on a weekly basis. She has helped me cope with the illness and the weight gain caused by being on Prenisone for over a year. The one thing I'd like my family to understand is that I constantly feel like I just ran a 26-mile marathon!
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