what life looks like as a 22yr old with RA
it also looks like using a cane when i need to (because my RA attacks my knees) and using a handicap placcard because of it. chronic illness can make your life look a bit different but it’s important to always show yourself love! #chroniclllness #rheumatoidarthritis #chronicillnesswarrior #autoimmunediseasewarrior #chronicillnessjourney
Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at a young age brings unique challenges alongside the typical milestones of early adulthood. From the shared experience of needing mobility aids such as a cane due to knee pain, to the practical use of a handicap placard for easier access, daily life often requires thoughtful adjustments. RA primarily affects joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness that can significantly limit movement and quality of life. Treatment for RA is multifaceted. Many young adults begin with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like weekly methotrexate injections. While methotrexate helps control inflammation, it can come with side effects including migraines, nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and brain fog — all common hurdles that require ongoing management. Regular bloodwork is crucial for monitoring inflammation levels and ensuring liver and kidney health, as these organs can be affected by medication. Imaging tests such as MRIs and ultrasounds play key roles in tracking joint damage and inflammation (synovitis) especially in fingers and knees. These diagnostics help doctors tailor treatments more effectively. For cases where methotrexate alone is insufficient, biologic therapies—targeted immune-modulating drugs—offer hope by better controlling disease activity and improving life quality. Many people with RA find relief with additional daily supports like compression gloves to ease finger flares, and lifestyle changes to reduce stress and maintain mobility. Psychological resilience is just as essential: practicing self-love and patience helps combat the emotional toll chronic illness can take. Connecting with others on a similar journey via chronic illness and autoimmune warrior communities can provide valuable support and motivation. Ultimately, life with RA at 22 means balancing medical care, symptom management, and emotional wellbeing while pursuing personal goals. It’s a testament to strength and adaptability, demonstrating that with the right care and support, young adults can thrive despite the hurdles of rheumatoid arthritis.
I am 34 and was diagnosed at 32. I was on Methotrexate for a while until it started affecting my liver enzymes. Then they put me on these orange horse pills called Sulfa something lol. Didn’t see any change in numbers. Now I’m on a biologic called Amjevity. Side effects at first are GI upset and extreme fatigue. Like not going to lie, it took me 3 injections to get used to the GI upset and it finally went away. But after each injection I’m extremely tired and useless about an hour after and the next 24 hrs. I hate it. But you will get through this 💪🏻. I know it’s hard, oh boy do I know. But we won’t let this diagnosis define us!!!