Physical appearance - maybe less “significant” signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis, but…

 …it still matters. Rheumatoid Arthritis diagnosis leads to big changes in our lives. But there are also some other changes to the person in the mirror. I hope not many of these signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis are a concern for you, but here is a list of what I have learned firsthand or from other RA’ers.  
   

1. Weight gain from medication.
2. Rheumatoid nodules on hands, elbows, or other RA joints.
3. Extremely dry hands from washing so frequently.
4. Weight gain or muscle loss from lack of exercise.
5. Hair thinning due to medication.
6. Shorter or simpler hairstyle because of RA hands, shoulders, wrists, or elbows.
7. Rounded face due to long-term use of prednisone.
8. Joints which are swollen or misaligned.
9. Fingers which are twisted or deformed.
10. Rashes or acne caused by medication.
11. No more high heels. Shoes that are as comfortable as possible.
12. Less use of cosmetics due to RA hand or wrist disability.
13. Altered gait due to RA hips or knees.
14. No manicure:  sharp fingernails which cannot be filed due to RA hand disability.
15. All over dry skin because it’s too painful to apply lotion due to hand pain.
16. Use of braces or canes.
17. Loss of height from osteoporosis or disc flattening.
18. More easy to manage clothing with fewer buttons, etc.
19. Loud noises from joints.
20. Pale complexion due to anemia.

I couldn’t think of any more this morning. Maybe you have some suggestions…

Last month, my daughter and I spent hours and hours working on a makeover for my warrior avatar with a photo shop program.  I like her sharper weapon. My four year old says her skin looks smoother and her earrings are pretty. I thought it was so funny because the real me could sure use the same treatment.

Recommended reading:

• What Is Joint Protection for Rheumatoid Arthritis? 
• The Difference Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis and Depression

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This entry was posted on Monday, December 21st, 2009 at 8:30 am and is filed under RA Education. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.