

Today I went to see a new Rheumatologist after my old one (literally) retired!
The news wasn't that good. I also need to have lots more xrays and ultrasounds to further investigate the degeneration over the last 18 months.
There is a whole big long list of things going wrong with my body. Pain medication isn't working and I'm constantly struggling through pain 24 hours a day. I have medication to help me sleep and pain medication that just makes me like a zombie. (which I don't like) I take general pain medication and avoid the opiates as much as possible, when I can.
I am being referred to a pain management centre to try to work out a better pain management program to help me cope and to relieve pain.
I have had a lot of blood tests today, to check my kidneys, liver and inflammation.
The findings are extensive, and this is just a few - so I'm here whinging today - sorry :(
POLYARTHROPATHY - Osteoarthritis affecting multiple joints... HIPS, SHOULDERS worst.
FIBROMYALGIA - Muscular pain and burning muscles, tender points widespread. Nerve pain.
Extremely High levels of inflammation throughout my body.
Hip Trochanteric Bursitis (mostly LHS)
Hip Degeneration - osteoarthritis (Both hips)
Facet Joint degeneration - osteoarthritis
Shoulder bone abnormality RHS causing supraspinatus tendon tearing.
Shoulder Bursitis - Both shoulders
Shoulder Rotator Cuff tearing - Both shoulders
Osteoarthritis damage to both shoulders
Degenerative Knee problems
Degenerative Ankle problems
Plantar Fasciitis - why I can't stand on my feet in the mornings!!
Wrist and Ankle degeneration through the osteoarthritis
Deformation of index finger LHS - arthritis
I now am in need of
Shoulder Arthroplasty - Basically shoulder replacements!!
I could be in line for a Hip Replacement!!
My left index finger has developed Heberden's nodes - a permanent bony outgrowth that often skews the fingertip sideways.
This is just my joints problems!! I also have other things like Hypothyroidism and Impaired Glucose Tolerance.
Then there is the emotional stuff I'm having to deal with - PFTT.
I think I will go have a glass of wine now, It can't hurt can it :)
I am 49 years old and feel 99.
If you got this far, thanks for reading and listening to my whinge for today. I'm trying to keep up a positive attitude as I know things could always be worse... but I'm really feeling Disheartened today - and I guess I worry about my art-producing abilities in the future.
Lots of Love & Hugs,
Me xo