A detailed guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis, exploring its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and effective treatments to manage joint inflammation and improve quality of life.
When I’m Judged for Using Disabled Parking With an Invisible Illness Every time I pull into a disabled parking spot, I brace myself. Not for the walk into the building or the flare-up that made me need the space in the first place—but for the looks, the whispers, the judgment. Because I don’t “look sick.” And in a world that still struggles to understand invisible illness, that’s enough for some to assume I’m doing something…
When Celebrities Talk About Chronic Illness, Don’t Forget About Everyday Spoonies When celebrities talk about chronic illness, headlines follow. Social media buzzes. Interviews go viral. For a brief moment, the world listens. But as the attention fades, what remains for the millions of people who live daily with invisible conditions? These individuals, known lovingly in the chronic illness community as “spoonies,” are often left behind in the narrative, quietly managing symptoms, navigating medical systems, and…
What I Realized When My Mother-in-Law Said, “I Hope You Feel Better Soon” There are some phrases that float past us so often they become background noise. “Take care.” “Feel better.” “Let me know if you need anything.” But every so often, one of these phrases lands with weight. That’s what happened when my mother-in-law quietly said, “I hope you feel better soon.” It was a simple statement, but it revealed far more than sympathy.…
Celebrity Kathleen Turner has rheumatoid arthritis — a diagnosis that changed her life but never broke her spirit. Known for her powerful voice and magnetic screen presence, Turner has been an icon in Hollywood for decades. However, behind the glamour and fame, she has quietly fought a painful and relentless battle against rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disease that affects joints and can cause severe pain and disability. Understanding Kathleen Turner’s Diagnosis Kathleen Turner’s diagnosis…
When It’s Time to ‘Break Up’ With Your Doctor In theory, your doctor should be your partner in health—someone who listens, respects, and supports your journey toward wellness. But in reality, not all doctor-patient relationships work out the way they should. Sometimes, despite years of visits and trust, the relationship no longer serves your needs. And just like any other relationship, there may come a time when you have to walk away. Breaking up with…
How It Feels to Wear My Disability Blue Badge on the Train When I board a train wearing my disability blue badge, I’m not just carrying a plastic card or lanyard. I’m carrying the invisible weight of judgment, assumptions, and sometimes even shame. That small symbol, intended to offer support and recognition, can feel more like a spotlight than a shield. And yet, I wear it—because I have to. Disability, especially when it’s invisible, invites…
Introduction: The Hidden Connection Between Fibromyalgia and Neuroinflammation Fibromyalgia has long been classified as a chronic pain disorder, but new research suggests that its origins may lie in the brain and immune system rather than the muscles and joints. One emerging theory points to neuroinflammation, a condition where the brain and nervous system become inflamed, potentially leading to amplified pain signals, fatigue, and cognitive issues. Understanding the role of neuroinflammation in fibromyalgia could transform treatment…
Introduction: Can the Carnivore Diet Offer Relief from Chronic Pain? Chronic pain conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia are notoriously difficult to treat. Many patients cycle through medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, only to experience minimal relief. However, a growing number of people are turning to a radical dietary shift— the carnivore diet—to eliminate inflammation and pain. The carnivore diet is an all-meat, zero-carb approach that eliminates potential inflammatory triggers found in plant-based foods. Some…
Introduction If you suspect fibromyalgia, your doctor may refer you to a rheumatologist for further evaluation. A rheumatologist specializes in musculoskeletal and autoimmune diseases, making them one of the primary specialists involved in diagnosing fibromyalgia. However, because fibromyalgia does not cause joint damage or inflammation, many people wonder what role a rheumatologist plays in their diagnosis. This article will guide you through what happens during a rheumatology appointment, how fibromyalgia is assessed, and what steps…
Introduction Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairments. The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) has developed comprehensive, evidence-based guidelines to assist healthcare professionals in effectively managing FMS. These guidelines emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, integrating both non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions to enhance patients’ quality of life. Understanding Fibromyalgia Syndrome Fibromyalgia is a complex disorder marked by widespread pain and tenderness, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep…