New, too

[R.J.]

Hi, I'm a 24 yr old male, and have one more quarter left before I complete a degree in Education. I was diagnosed with RA just after I turned 19. I started on Enbrel soon after, and it has really been a miracle drug for me ever since. Although, how well it works really depends (I've noticed) on my lifestyle - e.g. eating healthy, having regular sleep patterns, exercise, etc.). Most of the pain I have is in my wrists, fingers, knees, and toes. It's most frustrating with my wrists because I love to play guitar, but can't practice as much as I'd like.

Perhaps the most frustrating thing right now is the cost of my Enbrel and finding a good health plan, since I'm no longer a dependent of parents. My current health plan covers 50% of the cost of Enbrel, but I still (or my parent do) have to pay $750 for a one month supply! Any advice for a poor college student?

For a long time I've wanted to get on a forum, but often felt too stubborn to talk about it - as if I was in denial, or simply complaining, or making excuses for my own lack of productivity. But everyone sounds really nice and helpful here, and I'm interested in hearing others' thoughts, insights, and opinions.

[loneil]

Welcome RJ
The only reason that I haven't tried any other drugs besides methetrexate and plaquenil is that I have no insurance at all and the cost of the "bio" drugs as my RA doc says are so expensive. He really gets frustrated himself because he really wants to help but I just can't afford it, so I know what you are talking about. I am sorry you have the disease and I think that everyone of us at one point was in denial about having it. It is still hard to realize you can't do some of the things you use to do. You are really young and with any luck they will come up with something new and improved before you are my age. Again welcome to the forum. And rant all you want. Take care. Linda.

[audrey]

I'm new too. I can completely relate to the whole denial about having RA, and you're even younger than I was. I was diagnosed three years ago and I just turned 33. I play a lot of music and had to give up guitar for a bit until I got things under control, I have started back up, which is awesome.
I was living in the States when I was first diagnosed and was on Plaquenil and mtx for a few years. I actually got off them about a year ago. I moved back to Canada 2 years ago where health care is a bit different- certainly not as good as the US in my opinion, but you certainly get what you pay for. I started going to a Naturopath/holistic doctor and I've made a whole lot of progress. Diet and exercise have been a major factor. I didn't need to lose weight (I'm 5'11 and 120lbs), but I needed to provide something better for my body. I've learned what foods trigger flare ups and what stuff helps. Vitamin D and green molusk extract (I can't remember the exact name) are my favorites!

Natural stuff may be an avenue to try, I was very skeptical at first, I thought I was going to have to eat twigs and wear black socks in Birkenstocks!
I hope you are able to get what you need in order to get feeling better, I understand how frustrating it is, when you just want to accomplish something!
Shine on~
Audrey

[R.J.]

Thanks, Audrey. I'm starting to learn what foods trigger flare ups for me too - late night pizzas have not been a good idea lately. I've tried taking omega 3 supplements, but can't really tell if it's making a big impact for me or not. I haven't heard of naturopath/holistic doctors. It sounds interesting, I think I might look further into it - anything to alleviate the need of synthetic medications.

Best,
R.J.

[audrey]

RJ-
Late night pizza's sounds good right now!! I've eaten a few meals this week with pork and red meat- I was at a friend's house last night- perfectly grilled rib-eyes! I only ate a little bit and today my hands and knees are killing me! I still was stubborn enough to pick up the guitar tho!
From what I've heard lately, there isn't too much available for Naturopath/holistic doctors in the States. Quite a few here in Canada, which is good because you have a good choice of which one to see. It's great when you have a Rheumatologist and Naturopath doc who will accept what each other is presenting- I fortunately have that!
I will try to do some research for you and maybe you can check out some supplements at a health food place, if you want.
Take care~
Audrey

[dipstick]

I'm new, too. I was diagnosed with RA and Fibromyalgia about 9 months ago. From bedtime to late afternoons the next day, I have excruciating pain. I toss and turn all night, every night, and when I get up, my fingers are curled into my palms. I take Prednisone and Morphine and wait-----then I can gently force my fingers to open.
RJ and Linda, pertaining to help with paying for your meds---- have you tried a website called: HelpPayRA.com? Also, my Rheumatologist found a program that will pay for my Enbrel, which I am to begin on the 25th of this month! I don't know what the qualifications are, but it never hurts to at least try. Hope the best for both of you.
Dipstick

[loneil]

Hello Dipstick,
Welcome to the forum. Thanks for the info on the website I will certainly try it. My heart goes out to you for all your problems, I am sorry. I really hope that the Enbrel will work for you. My Rheumatologist has me put on hand braces to keep my hands from curling so I know what you are talking about. They help but a pain to wear!!! Take care and thanks again for the advice. Linda