Rheumatoid Disease

1. Over 24 million Americans, over 7% of our population, have been diagnosed with an Autoimmune Disease and researchers say that number is rising steadily. At a rate of 1 in every 15 people there is a good chance that you or someone close to you may suffer from an Autoimmune Disease at some point in your life. There are over 80 different Autoimmune Diseases including Type 1 Diabetes, MS, Lupus, and Rheumatoid Disease (also known as Rheumatoid Arthritis). Though they all have slight variations many of the symptoms and struggles are the same. When I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Disease almost 3 years ago, I hadn’t even heard of it. Neither had my friends or family. It can be very scary to not understand what is happening to your body and have no idea where to turn for support and accurate information.
2. Learning about Rheumatoid Disease will give you an understanding of how this disease affects people from young to old, across all demographics in our communities.
3. We will explore how Rheumatoid Disease affects different parts of the body, ways that patients manage their disease and learn how you can support someone with Rheumatoid Disease.

A. Rheumatoid Disease affects the entire body

• • Definition
  • The invisible disease
  • Common symptoms (physical)
  • Common symptoms (mental/emotional)

Unfortunately, there is no cure for these symptoms and finding the best way to manage your symptoms can feel like putting a puzzle together with ever-changing pieces.

B. There are three main management options

1. • Pharmaceutical medication
   • Lifestyle changes
   • Dietary changes

We discussed what the individual can do to manage their symptoms but another key component to thriving with this debilitating disease is the support of our friends and family.

C. The support of loved ones is invaluable

1. • Be flexible
   • Encourage activity
   • Assist with tasks
   • Advocate

4. Rheumatoid Disease affects the whole person with a wide range of symptoms that are often hard to see. There is no cure but there are options to manage this disease. Having someone to lean on, who understands our unique needs, can be life changing.

5. If someone in your life has Rheumatoid Disease, please be understanding. This disease is hard to live with, hard to treat, and can take a huge toll on the person dealing with its impact day in and day out. Those with Rheumatoid Disease may not look sick, but they are often dealing with more than you could ever imagine. Compassion and understanding help make their lives just a bit easier.