I was diagnosed at 35, I have a mix of auto immune diseases, several all happening at once. I couldn't walk or sign my name with a pen, I was a mess. I am now 52 and doing a lot better. I will not tell you it's easy, I went through the wringer, but it does get better. I changed my diet, moved to a warmer climate, looked at alternative medicines. I started on methotrexate and was on it for 10 years, horrible stuff. If you ever need to talk or discuss what's happening I am here. Good luck with your maintenance of the disease. Be careful of taking medications, they do nasty things to you, I know sometimes you have no choice.
@sugarmuser, thank you for sharing your story and for your support. I am 48 and had 6 weeks of excruciating pain before I went to a rheumatologist. My rheumatoid factor was 282 when it was tested. Right now the pain is mostly in my hands; initially it was my knees and I couldn’t stand up on my own from any seated position; scary stuff. I’m glad you are doing better and hope to be able to say the same soon!
