Since I was diagnosed with PsA, I’ve tried several medications. I am currently taking methotrexate, Celebrex, and Enbrel. There have been some setbacks but overall I am doing much better than before I started treatment for PsA. Here is some of my history: I was in a near fatal car accident in 1975, my larynx was crushed leaving me with a permanent tracheotomy. I then acquired a near fatal infection and many subsequent infections in the years that followed. I had mild scalp psoriasis which began to worsen and spread to my arms and legs. Around the age of 40, I began to have joint pain and inflammation, my toes were red and swelled for years, but I was never diagnosed with PsA.
I was in an abusive marriage that kept getting worse and caused my psoriasis and pain to worsen too. I started having hip pain and was diagnosed with osteoarthritis and informed I would need a replacement in the future. I started Celebrex and it was a miracle. I found the courage to file for divorce and I started a physically stressful job, which caused further joint damage. After 10 years of suffering, I decided to get the hip replacement in March 2010, I also needed spinal surgery and I had it in July.
In September, I became very ill with sepsis, also near fatal. I had a heart attack, which luckily didn't cause any permanent damage. Recovery has been very slow. By then I was receiving disability. I saw a podiatrist for foot pain who referred me to a rheumatologist who diagnosed me with PsA!!!! By then I had substantial joint deterioration. The rheumatologist started me on methetrexate and I started to have hope. This is a summary of my history, there is so much more; too much to put into words. I also deal with PTSD, which may be a lifelong struggle too. This support group has been a great comfort and a wealth of information and I am truly thankful for their support.