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Hi, my name is Patriicia aka
Pattymelt.
I was born in 1958 and was very
healthy as a child except for a couple of things. These were overactive lymph
glands, sun rash and fever blisters on my mouth as a teenager. In 1977 I
suddenly had symptoms of pneumonia without the signs on my ex-rays. A bit
later I also had an inflammation episode at an old injury site in my foot.
The doctors diagnosed it as bursitis. Later the next year I displayed
symptoms of extreme flue with swollen glands, muscle pain, fevers that came
and went as well as the rash. Within one week my knees were swollen the size
of softballs and I could not even lift my head from the pillow without
assistance. I was referred to an internist and hospitalized 3 times within
the first 6 mo. with fevers spiking to 105, averaging 102, and joints freezing
in position. At times I could not even feed myself. My doctors were very
diligent in my care; making sure I got physical therapy, occupational therapy,
and anything else to keep me from being crippled. The doctors also stressed
the importance of rest and quiet.
The first year and a half was the
worst. My main medications were Prednisone (60mg) daily and a host of other
drugs that go along with treating the side affects of the disease as well as
the medications. By the second year I was weaned off the Prednisone with a
new drug at that time called D. Penacillamine(Cupramine).
As I felt better, because of the
medicines hiding the effects of the disease, I was increasingly active. I
lost my self-consciousness about dancing and went back to playing sports such
as volleyball and baseball on weekends. Soon my hips were deteriorated. I
had no idea this could happen. I spent the next 4 years in therapy 3 times a
week, using a cane and arm crutches while I waited for UCLA medical center to
get the approval to start using new hip implants without cement (especially
for someone as young as myself. I was 27 I believe.) When I did have the hip
replacements I had them both in the same year. They are extremely
successful. Since then I have also had my right knee replaced.
Today I am in remission overall
with joint damage primarily to my wrists and neck. I have occasional fevers
and several other health problems but this disease has never been as active as
the early years. Today my primary arthritis medicine is Celebrex.
I hope this is some information
and inspiration to others. Thank you for your interest. Till soon,
Melt This history was recorded October 26, 2001.
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