The Struggles and Triumphs of Living with Psoriatic Arthritis

Living with Psoriatic Arthritis Finding Hope in Remission

Psoriatic Arthritis The Hope of Remission

By Daniel Rose, as told to Evan Starkman

Imagine waking up every morning feeling like you’ve been run over by a herd of stampeding elephants. That’s how psoriatic arthritis felt for me, a real pain in the back (literally). I was only 24 when I got diagnosed, and life suddenly became a circus, with my body playing the role of the unfortunate clown.

My mornings were no longer the peaceful start to the day that I once knew. Instead, my back greeted me with stiffness and discomfort. Like a pesky mosquito, the pain buzzed in the background, making sure I never forgot about it. And as if that wasn’t enough, my feet and toes decided to throw a party of their own, swelling up and turning every step into a dance with agony. Planning my day around the pain became the norm, and bidding adieu to jogging and running was a bummer.

Just when I thought I had mastered the art of pain management, fatigue strutted into the picture, flexing its muscles like an unwelcome bodybuilder. It wasn’t the kind of fatigue where you simply yawn and grab a cup of coffee. Oh no, this was a full-body affair, leaving me feeling like a malfunctioning robot. Simple tasks, like getting out of bed or even taking a shower, suddenly required Herculean effort. It was starting to interfere with my life, turning everyday activities into a battle.

But here’s the kicker: people didn’t understand. Psoriatic arthritis is like a master of disguise, hiding beneath the surface where no one can see it. So there I was, in pain and exhaustion, and all people saw was a seemingly healthy young man. They showered me with advice, thinking a good night’s sleep or yoga session would magically make everything better. Oh, how I wished it was that simple! If only I could trade in their well-meaning but misguided suggestions for a glimpse into the complicated reality of my condition.

Thankfully, my rheumatologist stepped in like a superhero in a white lab coat. Together, we embarked on a journey of trial and error, exploring a multitude of medications, each one like a potential sidekick in my quest for relief. It was a rollercoaster ride, with drugs in pill form and injections taking center stage. My skin improved significantly, bidding farewell to the psoriasis symptoms that plagued me. But the arthritis component was a tougher nut to crack, a villain that threatened joint damage and the loss of hope.

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One of the hardest parts was feeling isolated, like a castaway stranded on Arthritis Island. Most people my age had no idea what it meant to navigate copays, infusions, and everything in between. They didn’t understand the struggles of deciphering insurance lingo or immersing myself in the world of medications. It was overwhelming, to say the least.

But slowly, ever so slowly, the treatments began to work their magic. Remission became my oasis in the desert, a momentary escape from the clutches of pain and fatigue. And then, in late 2021, a biologic infusion swooped in like a superhero’s cape, bringing a remarkable change. Adjusting the dosage was the secret key that unlocked relief, reducing joint pain and lifting the veil of fatigue. It was like finding a long-lost treasure chest of energy and freedom, allowing me to reclaim activities I once thought were lost. Traveling, working longer hours, and filling my wallet with more than just cobwebs became my new reality.

Now, let me share a few strategies that helped me navigate the treacherous waters of psoriatic arthritis. Remember, everyone’s journey is different, but these tips might just be the life jacket you need:

1. Find support: Seek out others who can relate to your experience. COVID might have thrown a wrench in the in-person support group meetings, but fear not! The virtual world offers a multitude of online communities where you can connect with kindred spirits. Dive in and find your tribe.

2. Become the researcher: Knowledge is power, my friend. Arm yourself with information about psoriatic arthritis. Delve into the secrets of your body, understand the nuances of your condition, and discover ways to explain it to others. This knowledge will empower you and help you advocate for yourself.

3. Write it down: Keep a record of your journey. In a little planner book, jot down your symptoms, pain levels, and daily activities. It’s like creating a map of your body’s terrain, revealing patterns and providing valuable insights for your rheumatologist. Plus, doctors tend to take you more seriously when you arrive armed with the written evidence!

By embracing these strategies, you increase your chances of finding the treatment plan that will unlock a world of relief. It may take time, but trust me, the wait is worth it.

So, fellow adventurers in the realms of psoriatic arthritis, remember this: pain and fatigue may try to steal the spotlight, but you have the power to reclaim your life. Armed with knowledge, support, and resilience, you can navigate the twists and turns of this condition and emerge victorious.

Now go out there and make those elephants bow down to your strength!

Do you have a story to share or any strategies that helped you on your journey with psoriatic arthritis? Let’s connect and share our tales of triumph! Together, we can conquer the pain and empower each other to live our best lives.

About the Author

Daniel Rose is a warrior, navigating the murky waters of psoriatic arthritis with a determination to live life to the fullest. Through his journey, he’s learned the power of resilience, support, and a great sense of humor. When he’s not busy conquering arthritis, Daniel enjoys chasing adventures and perfecting his pocketful of puns.