tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11774268549724197142024-03-19T03:20:25.873-07:00Living with RheumatoidJacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-61674382462832291292022-06-03T06:40:00.001-07:002022-06-03T06:40:24.657-07:00Nationals, Here I Go Cramping Again<p>I have to take prednisone to fly. I learned that one the hard way. After 10 years of being rheumatic I just learned of a side effect of prednisone. Cramps. </p><p><br></p><p>After years of training and wrapping numb fingers I am at USTA nationals with my daughter in Claremont California. We are a Mother Daughter doubles team. I’ve been doing everything right. Magnesium supplements (and expensive ones too to make sure they absorb) and eating bananas which I do not like. </p><p><br></p><p>But last night, in front of the biggest match of my life I spent the night jumping out of bed with massive leg cramps. I take tablets called salt sticks. Made for athletes to avoid cramps. Still cramping. Choked down another banana, still cramping. Finally I used a Helio stick of magnesium and I got some sleep. Not the best but some. </p><p><br></p><p>I was in tears. We spent $1000’s to get here and the thought of letting my daughter down was all I could think about. We’ve worked really hard. We’ve trained really hard. </p><p><br></p><p>Thankful they have finally stopped and I could get a few hours of sleep. </p><p><br></p><p>RA and it’s drugs. The gift the keeps on giving. </p><p>If you’re having cramping issues here is a link to the pills I use. </p><p><br></p><p>SaltStick FastChews, Electrolyte Replacement Tablets for Rehydration, Exercise, Hiking & Sports Recovery, Bottle of 60 FastChews Tablets, Lemon-Lime https://a.co/d/eI3UnFE<br></p><p><br></p><p>And also a link to the magnesium sticks that I think stopped the cramping. </p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://shop.jordanessentials.com/#/shop/from/1398?categoryID=18">https://shop.jordanessentials.com/#/shop/from/1398?categoryID=18</a><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-76732528179556817162021-11-17T19:15:00.000-08:002021-11-17T19:15:37.425-08:00Hives and RA?Yes you did read the headline correctly. Like Rhuematoid disease needed anything else to add to the mix, I have been learning that hives apparently are very much an autoimmune response.
When the hives first started I thought my hives were from the normal changes, Laundry detergent, hope. I got glutened, possibly. Maybe it was the new vitamin, nope. I've literally tried everything. That is what prompted me to think it might be Ra related. I started to do some research online and the same thing kept popping up as a cause of chronic (evil) hives.
So I decided to message my doctor (who sadly was out of office)and immediately I was dismissed by the covering physician. I sent her a internet search to show her she was wrong and to ask my doctor to return my call. When he did my worst fears were confirmed, it could indeed by RA. Yay, something else to worry about.
It has been two months since the hives first started. Ive been to Urgent Care where I received a shot. That helped for a little while. Then I was put on a Z-Pack and that worked for a little while. Then a major dose of prednisone, which i responded very well to, but who wouldn't from 80 mg of prednisone, until that didn't work any longer. Now I am 100% sure it is RA. I have also recheduled my booster numerous times.
I've tried so many things that would normally work but the hives are still persistent. Witch Hazel, topical creams,even Tagament as it is a antihistamine. Ive read that Apple Cider Vinegar is effective so I have been putting it on with a cottonn baqll (which butns terribly) and also back on my Goli vitamins. I am also taking D3 which I head is really effective
However,I made the exectuive decision that I was going to keep my booster shot appointment. The main reason, I think my immune system needs something else to do except mess with me all the time. It's too soon to know if my hunch was correct but I am definitely less itchy tonight than I was in the morning. Stay tuned. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-84630212115298703312021-10-19T07:20:00.001-07:002021-10-19T07:20:27.004-07:00Flying with RANobody warned me that altitude changes are horrible for RA. So, I am now warning you, if you are reading this. <div>Sadly, </div>Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-3614719967085894282019-04-10T19:24:00.002-07:002019-04-10T19:26:13.638-07:00A New Anti-Inflammatory ShakeActually, this isn't a shake as much as it is a smoothie. <br />
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Bluberries<br />
Apples<br />
Pineapple<br />
Chia Seeds<br />
Strawberries<br />
Celery<br />
Cucumbers<br />
Coconut Water<br />
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I mix almost all of my smoothies with Tart Cherry Juice. I actually use the Lakeside Organic because it isn't as bitter as most. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-20587003313540525522019-03-18T09:26:00.000-07:002019-03-18T09:26:05.544-07:00Reminders Can Be Good, Painful but GoodThere are some days that I forget I have RA. I realize that I am among a group of a few that can say this. Not every day, but some days. Yesterday was not one of those days, however, I will admit that I am thankful it came. <br />
I've shared, probably too many times, that I am a competitive tennis player. Generally, I play year round. This year that wasn't the case. MOstly because my daughter is trying to get scouted for college and the expense of indoor tennis. The disadvantage of living in NJ. I convinced myself that I was getting in the gym three times a week to keep up with my summer fitness. There is one problem with that, however. I hate the gym. So I have not. Therefore I have gotten a little sedentary this winter which is really not good for a person with RA. <br />
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I have an issue in the winter too of not following my stricter diet plan. I don't mean eating gluten, that will never happen again, but no sugar, real food, more produce and less "stuff." The holidays always make it harder but my restrictions have extended, well, into March. I've even gotten away from my vitamin regime. And worst of all, no morning smoothies. I know it is harder in the winter but still, it's been pretty bad. <br />
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So I shouldn't be surprised yesterday when I had my first hand flare in about six months. I mean the serious one. The serious one when I lose function of my hand. <br />
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My attitude, however, was surprising. I took that reminder that I am still sick and am using it to refuel my health. To get back to the gym. To get back on a healthier diet. To get back to my vitamin regiment which includes Tumeric and Boswellia. It's long overdue and tennis season is just around the corner. <br />
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Why am I sharing this? I'm not sure exactly. It's possible because I believe mental health ties into our physical health. Even with RA. This disease doesn't define who we are even though it is a part of who we are. <br />
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And to make my new motivation even more clear, when I did get off of the bike yesterday from my half hour ride, I went and lifted weights.....even with the flare in my right hand. It didn't get worse. In fact, I think it helped. <br />
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Let me know what you think? Have you ever noticed a difference when you stray from a diet? When you don't exercise?Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-49217657056887371872018-05-19T07:36:00.002-07:002018-05-19T07:36:46.664-07:00Rheumatism and Celiac Disease. Does Gluten Matter?It's been so long since I've blogged I don't even know where to start. Many times I have taken down notes, started a thought, emailed myself an idea, but it never got written. Until now. <br />
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There is much debate about gluten and the effect it has on the body. When I was diagnosed it was suggested to me, by my dogs vet no less, that leaving a life of gluten would be beneficial for inflammation. I did some research and read an amazing book by Novak Djokovich and decided to give it a try. Well, five years later I have zero doubt about how effective it can be. That is the reason for this blog post. <br />
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Wednesday for the first time in 4 years I ingested glutened. This wasn't the little cross contamination nausea and cramping. This was full ingestion of wheat. Only one bite (thanks Chipotle for not training your employees better. It's amazing how you get accustomed to a wheat free life. I knew as soon as I bit it was gluten. <br />
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Here is the result. Within an hour I was having joint pain. Hot flashes happened all night as well as an increase in bloating. The next day started with nausea and diarrhea including my personal favorite......grain brain. Grain brain is the inability to concentrate or focus. <br />
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It's been two days and I'm still not right. How did it affect my RA? Massive pain throughout my body. Inflammation in the joints. Numbness in my toes and fingers including decreased strength. I usually feel really good. I play competitive tennis and manage to keep my symptoms at bay. <br />
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So, maybe you tried eliminating gluten before and thought it didn't work. It may not right away, the longer I've gone the better I felt but I noticed a difference in swelling in a few weeks. I cheated in the beginning. Nothing substantial but I learned quickly that it isn't worth it for me. I urge you to try it again, this time longer than before. It may not be for you, but for me, the connection between celiac and rheumatism is very clear. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-38683987081619075512017-07-08T14:52:00.000-07:002017-07-08T14:52:07.717-07:00Altitude Changes Part TwoI'm getting ready to fly again, armed with the knowledge that altitude changes and RA are terrible together. I'm gonna try to nip an oncoming flare before it happens. Here's my plan:<br />
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I'm going to delay my Humira shot until a few days before I get on the plane. I am also going to take prednisone before flight and after landing. <br />
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This is a longer flight but now that I know Ra reacts to altitude I'm going to be aggressive. I've always handled mine this way. <br />
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Will update after my flight. <br />
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Jacqui<br />
RA WarriorJacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-40052116523402987802017-02-26T18:55:00.001-08:002017-02-26T18:55:47.802-08:00RA and Altitude ChangesI feel like I'm always learning something new about this disease. <br />
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Since being diagnosed a little over three years ago I took my first trip via plane. I love to fly and so vacations plans were made. Since I normally feel pretty awesome I expected I would feel the same.<br />
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I was incorrect. On a scale of 1-10 on a normal day my pain hovers between 0-2. I can function through it even if it is nagging. After my plane ride by my pain shot to a 8-9. Thankfully I packed my prednisone and was able to control the flare. Both feet and ankles flaring while at Universal is just horrible timing. I was positive of the flare on the ride home. My foot hurt the entire time as we flew higher to avoid a storm. <br />
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The disease is always about learning. Always. I just learned that altitude changes are bad for me. Before I fly again I will be preventative and start the prednisone as soon as I get off of the plane. <br />
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Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-17302734811116029592016-07-07T18:24:00.001-07:002016-07-07T18:24:22.165-07:00Arnicare. Seriously Arnicare. I wish rheumatism only affected joints but sadly it does not. When I pulled my hamstring in a tennis match a friend told me to try Arnicare. I'm a believer in Icy Hot and Bengay. I opted for prednisone at the time knowing that would heal it quicker (I did some research about the NHL and hamstring injuries and I truly felt it was RA related). I finally picked up a tube and here is my personal finding. <br />
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IT'S AWESOME!! Made from the Arnica plant. You can take it orally but I would really am liking the gel. I've had this horrible shoulder pain that just keeps nagging me. I think I need to invest in a expensive pillow. Always happens starts when I'm sleeping. I've reduced pillows, I've added pillows, I've gone no pillow. Nothing has helped. Except for Arnicare! My daughter tried it and thought the same thing. It works. I gave it to my cousin at Great Adventure and she thought it helped. (Those of us from NJ cannot call it Six Flags). <br />
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I went in completely skeptical but I am now a believer. So much I won't leave the house without it. <br />
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I've used it on, my shoulder with this nagging pain, my forearm when it was sore from a tennis ball machine, my knee when I went on a tomato streak, my hamstring when it nags, and my quads when sore from tennis. It's been awesome. Not sure if everyone will respond to it but I certainly did. For $8 it's worth a shot right? I haven't been able to try it while in a full flare, but, for maintaining in remission it's really helping. <br />
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Jacqui<br />
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P.S. It's also available as a pill. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-69698161067710033642016-06-29T13:16:00.001-07:002016-07-03T16:32:13.113-07:00Can My Gut Be Causing My Rheumatoid?This leaky gut theory keeps popping up. Today a friend posted an article from rheumroidarthritis.net and it too was questioning the relationship between Leaky Gut Syndrome and a Autoimmune Response. The following article I think has the best description of what Leaky Gut really is. <br />
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<a href="http://health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/2014/03/06/leaky-gut-what-it-is-and-how-to-heal-it"></a><br />
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I repeat it over and over on my blog the importance I think of going gluten free and eating more natural and healthy. I incorporate tart cherry juice, tumeric, boswellia, maca for energy, and try to limit sugar (I know that isn't always easy and thankfully being celiac helps with the sweets). I've recently gone much more organic too. Omega 3 goes into my Nutriblast every morning. That was specifically named in this article but I plan on researching and finding out more.<br />
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It's worth a shot right?<br />
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Here's another link I liked. I'm going to try some and keep researching. I am a gluten free vegetarian so it's already a complicated diet. <br />
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<a href="http://www.leakygutcure.com/blog/leaky-gut-diet/"></a><br />
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Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-85742274163860931932016-06-27T04:50:00.000-07:002016-06-27T04:50:17.532-07:00As the Humira Weeks Go By and Remember Your Muscles Too!When I first started taking Humira it was in addition to Methotrexate. I had done plenty of research to know the combination can kick this RA into remission. I figured I would give it a try. I remember in the first weeks my pharmacy thought they could get medication to me so I would stretch the shot a few days longer. No way. It was the first I felt normal and within a week or so I would start getting pains and I knew I needed it, and I certainly did. <br />
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After a year I was taken off methotrexate. I had been continually weening down so the plan was successful. I was also moved to every three weeks between shots. Then every month. Then every 6 weeks, now I inject every 8-9 weeks. But one thing has always been consistent every when ween, every step down. I wanted to share it with you.<br />
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In the beginning when dosing 2 weeks I had pains about a week and a half in and then I would panic. It was early, at the slightest indication I was about to flare I was ready to go. <br />
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At a month it was 3 weeks. Same thing. Not so much panic but I could handle the flare with a quick short burst of Prednisone.<br />
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At 6 weeks it was about four or five weeks. I would take the shot and resume feeling normal every time. <br />
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At 8-9 weeks it's about five weeks into. Where I am now when I pulled my hamstring during a tennis match. First time ever. I knew that even though this was a muscle it was RA related because I felt achy and in pain, especially in my shoulder and that all went away when I pulled the hammie. I used a quick prednisone treatment to stop the flare. <br />
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Now and like everytime before if I get through this little phase I can put off that shot for a few more weeks. At least a couple weeks. <br />
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And don't forget that this disease can attack your muscles too. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-21804967900494467032016-05-26T20:36:00.000-07:002016-05-26T20:36:23.716-07:00The Dreaded TirednessIt is well known that a Vitamin D deficiency is common with a Rheumatoid Disease diagnosis. I am sure that is true with anyone dealing with this disease. I think sometimes it is the most annoying side effect that I have at times. I am a active person, my daughter is a competitive dancer and tennis player. I also play USTA tennis and play on two teams. <br />
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The last month has been exceptionally rainy. I've noticed that I can't stay awake. It is a coffee filled struggle. Especially trying to get energy for practice or worse yet a match. This week we finally have sun, know what I notice? I'm not as tired. I don't need that afternoon nap. I'm getting sun. <br />
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I also take a B supplement. I can tell when I am not taking that. That also goes for not getting enough sleep and not eating right. Food is our energy source, we have to choose wisely. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-29683675800669228812016-05-13T20:53:00.001-07:002016-05-13T20:53:58.796-07:00Every Once In Awhile I Get A ReminderI've been feeling great. I recently just managed to push my Humira shot to 9 weeks. Janurary to March. When I do feel greatI forget how quickly I can not feel great, for a reason or simply no reason at all. <br />
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Wednesday morning I woke up from a pain in my foot. Normally my flares goes to my hands. This one did not. I took 5 mg of prednisone and some pain meds and went to drill (tennis), as I haven't been able to play much because of the weather. <br />
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A couple hours after the drill I could barely put pressure on my foot. I decided to get more aggressive and upped my prednisone in the afternoon by another 10 mg. That seemed to help so at night I only took another 5mg. The next day I could walk well and the majority of the range of motion came back. I did take the day off from activity (besides walking in the city to go to the PA Ballet). <br />
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I immediately starting to ween myself the next day as I was feeling better. Down to 10 mg. Today I am at 5mg. It's two days later. I don't like staying on prednisone longer than necessary. I try to keep it quick. Though that isn't always possible. <br />
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I've come to realize there are many reasons for this to happen.<br />
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1. This isn't medically proven, but, I'm sticking with it. When my immune system fights off a virus I have RA symptons. I am around kids all the time. They bring a lot of germs. Maybe I caught a bug.<br />
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2. With the non-stop rain I've had here in NJ I haven't been able to get out to play tennis, nor have I hit the gym. My daughter is a competitive dancer so I've been spending a lot of time sitting at rehearsal and competitions (where I am now). Out of routine. I believe I have to move. I don't care if it's getting in a pool and walking. Movement is MAJOR for RA. <br />
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3. When my shots were 4 weeks apart I would always get a little achy and sometimes have a quick flare around 3 weeks. My doctors tells me that means I still need the medicine. So if I am at 9 weeks the time frame is roughly the same. I started to panic and take the shot, but I waited and let "Satan's Tic Tac's" do it's thing. <br />
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4. RA needs no reason! NONE. I try to remind myself not to panic. This isn't longterm, nor does it mean the disease is kicking up. I managed to play in drill two days later and I felt great again, and a little sore. I ran a lot!<br />
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Keeping a journal is so important to understanding how our bodies are dealing with this disease. I cannot encourage anyone enough. <br />
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I've been reading some interesting articles and look forward to sharing them on this blog. <br />
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#RASucksJacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-535550371798312682016-04-03T18:41:00.001-07:002016-04-03T18:41:45.499-07:00If Only This Disease Was Simple<br />
I just managed to span my Humira shot to 9 weeks. I actually felt great even when I took the injection but I guess I felt it was a week over my Doctor appointed time. Oddly enough a week later I'm having some interesting symptoms. If only this disease was simple. <br />
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The weather here is crazy. A air condition warm of 80 to a heater cold of 30 has become the norm around here. Normally I don't react to weather but we are talking extremes here. Lots of rain too as we move into spring. Not a usual factor for me, but again it's extremes. I've done some serious debating with myself on whether to wait it out or take some prednisone. <br />
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A week later I seem to have a not simple day. I can't decide whether to call this pain or discomfort but I've managed to stay clear of the pain medicine and the prednisone. Pains in the small joints, one foot and one hand. The belt feeling never came. That's what I call the feeling of losing my circulation before the major flare. I'm holding fast.<br />
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I was sure to document all of this so I can remember what happened and when and see if there is any pattern to it next time I inject. Since this disease isn't simple I find it necessary to journal. <br />
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I wish this disease was simple enough that what works for me works for you. But we are all so different. "Journaling" can really help you figure out your disease. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-75380020162271104312016-02-08T18:08:00.000-08:002016-02-08T18:08:28.823-08:00Pain in the SnowWhen you are rheumatic it is so easy to hit the panic button every time pain increases. After all, our medicine is loaded with side effects goodness. So a year or so ago, for eight months, I kept a journal. I didn't want to take more medicine in a panic or go on a prednisone weening. It helped me to see patterns. Patterns help a lot. After my meniscus surgery rain didn't bother me. I play USTA tennis all summer so I'm always out in humidity. I sometimes think I feel a little better, joints feel more loose. There was one thing that always kept the same pattern.....snow.<br />
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Two or three days before I would start noticing an increase in pain. Just annoying little aches everywhere. Take a step and the ankle hurts, reach for a glass and the annoying pain in the middle of the hand that is intense but quick. Those annoying aches that just hit that panic nerve. Then the flare. The pattern was very clear. <br />
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It has gotten better. The last storm, Jonas, I had no pain before. I felt really good. I didn't have any problems until shoveling (if I can do it I am thankful). My problem actually didn't start until the middle of the night when my hand was went completely numb. I know that means more is coming. Short prednisone treatment and I was ready to go. I am finding a 10mg followed by 5mg helps these quick short flares without having to take extra medication that I don't want to take. <br />
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So if you are feeling frustrated with your symptoms, give it a try. It gave me a little more peace of mind. Of course this disease can evolve and change but it has worked the last few years. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-4179221150791897332016-02-02T18:34:00.001-08:002016-02-02T18:34:54.928-08:00Rheumatoid Arthritis Day 2016/Going for 8 WeeksI've spent much of this day blasting information about rheumatoid disease. Hoping that someone will think to themselves that they have had these symptoms, lets check it out. I wish I would've read my posts 5 years ago. I definitely would have gotten checked before the flares came. <br />
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I spent part of my day at my 6 month check up. How ironic. I knew my bloodwork was going to say my inflammation markers were up as I've had quite a bit more pain and symptoms over the last few weeks. It's been mostly my fault. I've been off of my eating regiment (not eating as natural as I usually do and definitely eating more sugar than I normally do), I haven't been playing tennis as much as we transition to indoors, I haven't been to the gym in months because I really hate it there. <br />
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Surprise, they are normal. Normal is wonderful for more than just rheumatoid disease. <br />
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I cannot stress enough the importance of eliminating gluten from your diet if you are rheumatic. It makes a huge difference. Even if I have pain I don't swell. <br />
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In case you haven't read my other posts, here are the changes I've made. <br />
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1. Tart Cherry Juice has amazing benefits upon benefits but none more powerful than fighting inflammation. Usually now I just add it to my Nutriblast in the morning. <br />
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2. Nutriblast. As colorful as possible. I always include some honey. I always include spinach or kale. I always include a seed. Sometimes flax, usually Chia Seeds. <br />
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3. Go by my body and not what a doctor tells me! I recently just extended my shot to almost 5 weeks. I was 2 days shy , I know I will make it next time. After all, we were shoveling 2 feet of snow. Snow is a reactor for me but this year was not so bad. We also haven't had much snow. <br />
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4. Learn to eat a variety of salads. My dressing is lemon juice and olive oil. Get some extra C in from a fresh lemon. I learned to eat Arugala, and Escarole, and Kale with Quinoa. I even added multi color sweet peppers to one variety that is excellent with sunflower seeds. To my surprise shredded brussel sprouts make a fantastic base, especially if mixed with kale. <br />
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5. Tumeric. Just go read about it. Every rheumatic should take it.<br />
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6. Boswellia seems to be a needed combination with tumeric for me. I've tried to take Tumeric without it and it didn't end well. <br />
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7. Reduce sugar, easy is you cut out teas, juices, sodas. I still drink a lot of water to keep things moving in there. <br />
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Just because this works for me does not mean it works for you. This disease is tricky that way. That means you have to keep reading and listening and trying new things. I'm sure this combination won't work sooner or later and I will be back to my list of what herbs and trying new combinations. <br />
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Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-71568134373960685772016-01-20T19:22:00.001-08:002016-01-20T19:22:13.665-08:00RA is in the Spotlight but Not For a Great Reason<br />
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The passing of Glen Frey has put Rheumatoid Disease front and center. For rheumatics like me, it is terrifying to hear someone died from complications of their medication. I am glad that finally people may become educated about this disease. I've even had a doctor tell me, "at least it's not lupus." He may not have been a rheumatologist but come on. RA is no walk in the park. <br />
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From one rheumatic to another I cannot urge you enough to look into the natural remedies to help. Not that they can replace your medication. I am a believer that our current food system is partly to blame for our bodies reacting the way they do. However, here are some of the things I try to do:<br />
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1. <i>Eat more natural, raw, lots of fruits and vegetables</i>. I even use Olive Oil and lemon juice for dressing. <br />
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2. <i>Try to keep your liver clean</i> by taking milk thistle and reducing alcohol. <br />
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3. <i>MOVE</i>. I cannot stress it enough. I know when the pain takes over all else. Try a pool. Try foot pedals. Try something. I had a ecocardiogram (just checking as I developed edema from Humira. I was told if you don't move on this drug it will attack your heart. I haven't tried swimming when the pain was bad but I am betting it would feel great. <br />
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4. <i>Boswellia and Tumeric</i>. That combination works so well for me. I realize it may be a "for now" situation. I've taken one without the other. I need to take them together. <br />
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5. <i>Nutriblast</i>. Unless you want to eat all day long it is almost impossible to get all that produce in. I find drinking it for breakfast starts my day right. If you have osteoarthritis the combination of cinnamon and honey is supposed to be wonderful as well. Plus I can hide all the vegies and fruits I don't like in it and not taste them so much. <br />
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6. <i>Tart Cherry Juice</i>. I can only go a few days without it and I am feeling it. It is highly effective. Athletes are now drinking it to recover quicker. Fights inflammation, helps relieve pain, and helps you sleep. <br />
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7. <i>Research, Research, Research. Read and read more</i>. I never stop looking for answer for when I have to change things up to control my RA. I actually keep a list on my laptop of the natural herbs proven to help RA. When I need it, I will switch. <br />
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8. <i>Go Gluten Free</i>!! I cannot stress this enough. I don't mean for two weeks or two months. I mean just do it. It helps. Yes I know it is hard to give up bread (I still smell). I will tell you that eventually you will get used to it. The first year is the hardest. And yes you can live without pizza. Or you can find a great place called Jules in NJ that has the best gluten free pizza ever. <br />
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9. Find which food are your trigger. When I was diagnosed I was told to stay away from the nightshades. The nightshades are potatoes, tomatoes, green peppers, goji, and eggplant. I did in the beginning but then I noticed a couple of these don't bother me. I can eat peppers and potatoes which no side effects. Tomatoes are in moderation for me and I will know quickly if I've overindulged. Eggplant is a treat reserved every few months because I react immediately. Point is, find what works for you and what doesn't. <br />
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10. <i>If you don't know what is in your food, please don't eat it</i>. I am 100% convinced that our food is part of the problem. The USA allows so many foods that are banned in other countries. It is so frustrating.<br />
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11. <i>BEWARE</i>. So many people will approach you with the answer to your disease. Just take these shakes, take these pills, try this oil. I bit when I was first diagnosed. I spent a fortune on Juice Plus because I was told people had gone into remission just by taking these vitamins everyday. I ended up poorer and still on methotrexate and eventually Humira. Then I was told I need additional pills. I ended up cancelling and realizing these pills aren't going to cure me. Not that they are bad because they aren't, they just weren't the answer. I recently heard that it's the oils! I needed an oil to cure my disease. No. I wish it was that simple. If it was we would all be cured and on oil. I'm not saying not to try, I just saying try with caution. <br />
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12. <i>Find a Great Rheumatologist</i>. No they are not all made the same. I hear of many bad ones. Makes sure he/she wants to see you well. <br />
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I know without a doubt a room full of 200 rheumatics will have 200 different stories. Our disease is unique as it can affect everyone so differently. I am not saying what works for me will work for you too. I am stressing you finding what works for you. It is so easy to be discouraged, we've all been there. Chances are we will be back there. Use a support group. It's a wonderful resource for information. I learn many things in my support group that I have never read in a article or book. <br />
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And lastly, fight, and keep fighting. <br />
Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-48763042521463353352015-10-06T06:57:00.000-07:002015-10-06T06:57:27.672-07:00Does Location Matter? A Surprising Thing Happened When I Moved My Humira ShotIn March I was diagnosed with Edema. As a precaution I went through all the routine tests including a ecocardiogram. All the test came out fine. It is still an alarming condition that may have been brought on by major circumstances. However, it was not and we believe that the underlying cause is the Humira. Being rheumatic we are also on and off of prednisone and that can also cause edema. Something interesting happen to me recently and I wanted to share it with you, maybe it can help someone else. <br />
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1. I noticed that my bruising from the injections stopped when I started on the water pills. I found it interesting because I had bruising on my stomach that would last for a month sometimes. <br />
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2. I decided over the summer to move my injection from my legs to my stomach because I'm wearing shorts or tennis skirts. That's when I realized my Edema had cleared up. So to recap, I moved the injection to my stomach and suddenly my leg stopped holding water? <br />
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Not sure if this has happened to anyone else so I would love to hear stories. So if you are holding water from your Humira shot, I suggest you give it a shot. I also think the sting hurts less too.Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-91508370660118720232015-09-21T16:53:00.002-07:002015-10-06T06:58:07.793-07:00Boswellia I wanted to share an experience and hopefully it can help someone else. <br />
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I have previously posted about my vitamin regiment. It seems to be working for me. I have added a breakfast of a nutribullet blast. That has especially been beneficial and I have lost weight.<br />
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However, I recently ran out of Boswellia and didn't think it was important enough to rush to the store and get some. After about two weeks I started to notice an increase in my pain level. About two days after adding it back in I stopped having those pains and started to get back to feeling normal again.<br />
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Just thought I would share in case anyone else wants to try. <br />
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GodspeedJacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-59469365760601505682015-08-30T13:49:00.003-07:002015-08-30T13:49:53.570-07:00Graduation With A ReminderLast Tuesday I had my normal 3 month checkup with bloodwork. For the first time since my diagnosis I didn't take my monthly journal. There just isn't much to say. <br />
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I'm doing great 6 months off of the "liquid gold", also known as Methotrexate. No disease progression. No increased activity. In fact, my activity level at times can be unnoticeable or manageable without medication. That's wonderful. I can attempt to cut back my Humira to a monthly shot although I cannot come off of it.....yet. That's still my ultimate goal but I will take monthly. My nonsurgical knee was starting to give me some problems. I totally understand as I am just off my first winning tennis season in the USTA with both teams ( 18 & over and 40 & over). A couple days later it feels great, I'm playing great again and able to move. I am hopeful to win this next battle with Blue Cross Blue Shield who believes my Syn Visc injections are just putting off the inevitable knee replacement surgery. Their words not mine. I think they are insane for suggestion that to a 46 year old rheumatic. I knew my inflammation marker would be up, I could feel it. <br />
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I did pick a horrible time to try to stretch my shot to 4 weeks. Very horrible time. I had heat exhaustion at my last state tennis match. I finished the match when most wouldn't, but, I really put my body through more than a rheumatic should. I guess I don't like to leave things unfinished. With that came a minor flare. I made it to three and a half weeks between my Humira shots, but, I also had a right hand flare (those are fun for a professional musician). I had to put myself on a short course of prednisone for 24 hours. I am now weaning off and was able to work this morning. Humira is taking control. I will try again but at least I can spread them out more. I was very lax in my supplement regiment as my diet got a little out of sync. I am getting back on track. More tart cherry juice and prioritizing my Tumeric. Also giving up more sugar. <br />
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My next office visit is in 6 months. I hope this disease continues on the same path it has been the last six months. Humira has been good for me, I still don't listen to the commercials and probably won't as long as I need it to feel normal. It's a scary drug which is why making sure exercising and a healthy almost raw diet. I will always be gluten free. I am at peace with that and since I've lost 40 pounds without trying I am staying the course.<br />
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Small flare aside, I feel great. I never thought I would say that two years ago! <br />
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Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-91941974951010210462015-08-02T16:50:00.000-07:002015-08-02T16:50:09.876-07:00My Anti-inflammatory ShakeI completely feel that as a rheumatic I am completely dependent on Tart Cherry Juice. Sometimes after I play or because of weather I really need a boost to my regiment. I take a few vitamins and minerals throughout the day. When I need a boost I've beendrinking a anti-inflammatory shake made with my Nurti Bullet I love my Nurtibullet. I have no idea how I lived without it. I can generally notice a difference literally within a few hours. Here's the ingredients. This is my variation because it doesn't taste so good. I find it to be bitter without honey. <br />
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Half of a lime, peeled<br />
Pineapple<br />
1 celery stalk<br />
Half cucumber including skin and seeds<br />
Honey<br />
Coconut Water to fill max fill line<br />
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I keep pineapple frozen. The colder for this the better. Sometimes I will even add ice. Pulse for 30 seconds. Try to enjoy. It's tough. <br />
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Let me know if this works for you. <br />
Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-20144543004365094332015-07-30T11:16:00.000-07:002015-07-30T11:18:11.933-07:00I Can Do All Things, Tomorrow is a Big Day!!Anyone who has ever been sick knows one of the worst parts is not being able to do what you want to do. Not being able to be at the office, or spend time with your family, those types of things. Living with a disease is no different. Today I am writing one blog post for both pages today. One for Rheumatoidblogger and the other for my Worship Leaders Blog. Though they are always entwined together just as my life is (I am a Christian Rheumatic after all), this post has to be.<br />
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Back in the first weekend of May I started a new journey. Months before that I was blessed to be able to start to train for competitive tennis. I was so nervous that first match but remember that God had bought me that far and to just trust. Not worry, just trust. Remember Philippians 4:13. Oddly enough I repeated that verse at idiom over 20 years ago when I played in my very first service.<br />
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Tomorrow I will be repeating that verse to myself as I step out to play in my very first USTA Districts (state) match. Both of my USTA tennis teams finished first in our division. The first round of districts is tomorrow and Saturday. Sunday is the championship match which I hope our team will be playing in. <br />
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For anyone who just started following my Worship Leader blog let me fill you in on this unexpected journey I've had. It all started with foot problems. More than likely coming from years of pointe. I broke it, pulled ligaments, bursitis, and some I can't even remember. I've had shots on the side, in the heal, through the bottom. I've been in a boot, out of the book and back in the boot. I named it Jose since we became such good friends. AHHHH. It still makes me cringe. Then the knees started. I tore the left meniscus and had surgery. I tore the right and played through it. Then when I thought all was really going well, I started to lose my hands. Horrible for tennis and ministry. I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Disease, the autoimmune one not that one treatable with BenGay. I responded to medicine quickly and was on my way when I slipped and fell on a wet floor and landed on my back. That taught me that falls and rheumatism do not mix well. My rheumatism was out of control. Finally in this year I was pain free enough to finally train to play tennis. That brings you up to today. It's also very sad that has been my longest paragraph, but, it is what it is and this is what it is. <br />
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I'm so nervous. I'm so excited. I'm so grateful that God has gotten me here because my health clearly could have went the other way. I'm so thankful to everyone who has led me and prayed for me to feel better. This list is long and I do not want to forget anyone churches individuals. But what a story I have to share on what the Lord has accomplished. I'm so very humbled to be able to say I am well enough to do this. I'm still in the rheumatoid groups, reading story after story of people giving up and having complications. Of people feeling hopeless because they can't get a pain free night. Of people dealing with other diseases on top of the rheumatism which is horrible my itself. I could be them and they could be me. I recognize my fellow celiacs who helped me turn my lifestyle around and realize I am a celiac and that probably led to the RD. For someone mentioning to try Juice Plus (which didn't work for me but please try it for yourself). Every "Nutriblast believer" and natural medicine fanatic who really were influential sending me lists of natural remedies. I don't know where I read about Tart Cherry Juice, can't thank you enough because I swear by it. I am indebted to my Savior who through all things I can do anything." Especially if it's in his will. For being with me through the horrible times when I couldn't get out of bed for a day, or sleep for may nights in a row because the pain is always worse at night. God is good all the time. <br />
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New song for tomorrow. I usually listen to Selena's Slow Down, B.E.A.T., and Like A Champion before every match. I'm sure I will tomorrow, but my rally song will a song by Matthew West,<br />
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STRONG ENOUGH. Because YOU are strong enough. <br />
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Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.<br />
Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-32941500598917479002015-07-13T05:02:00.001-07:002015-07-13T05:02:54.800-07:00Little NervousToday is my first time having to play a USTA match with a few rheumatoid symptoms. One is the tiredness, been having a hard time shaking it. The other is just the normal aches. My thumb joint started yesterday. I took a prednisone over night hoping it would end the problem but I am waking up with the same thing. I had debated about taking my Hunira shot a day earlier and I think I should have. I will have to wait until tomorrow now as it makes me sleepy. Match time is in one hour. Not just this one, but another later tonight as well that will prove to be a tough one. We played and won by a thread a few weeks ago. No doubt they will be looking to even the score tonight. <br />
Here's where my faith comes into play however. I know overall it is the Lord who has healed me to do what I do and it is Him that I must trust to get through this day. Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-54900052697211380232015-04-15T05:56:00.000-07:002015-04-15T05:56:52.008-07:00You Know You're Feeling Better When......1.You forget to take your Humira shot.<br />
A few months ago I was counting down the days until the next shot. In the beginning I could barely wait two weeks. <br />
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2. You continually forget your strict vitamin/herbal routine. <br />
I've been eating like crap, and forgetting, and eventually, mark my words I will start to feel like crap.Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1177426854972419714.post-85698966012903829672015-04-05T17:31:00.000-07:002015-04-05T17:31:17.550-07:00What a Difference a Year MakesSpring- New Start. New Life. <br />
I used that title because this time last year I was in bed trying to get a little bit of energy to go to dinner. I remember being quite miserable too. The typical methotrexate crash. Considering I'm a Worship leader and Church musician this is one busy weekend for me. I was flaring all the time. Wasn't sure if I was going to be able to play or not, just had to take the step of faith. <br />
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This Easter is so much different. Reason I titled this post "What a Difference A Year Makes." It is really true. This Easter I not only have been awake all day. I am also not in pain all the time (very minimal) and off of methotrexate. Do I think it will be the end, no, but, it's good for now. <br />
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So as you think of Easter, New Life, or spring as a new beginning, remember that pain just may not be forever! I'm not sure how other Autoimmunes work but I know it sometimes takes trial and error to get the right combination. It's frustrating but hang in there!<br />
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Happy Easter!<br />
Jacqui Zollnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03103869893680767466noreply@blogger.com0