Hungry but Happy

Just thought I would throw on an update about my suspected rheumatoid arthritis, I still haven't gotten into the doctor but have an appointment for later this month, the first rheumatology appointment takes a while to schedule apparently.

Some have suggested my problem might be carpal tunnel or some other nerve condition, but this is in my toes, my shoulders, my hips, my knees, as well as my hands... they are just the worst part. Another possibility is lupus, which I do have the antibody for... but I don't get the face rash. Or lymes disease... there are a lot of ticks here. I guess I will find out in a few weeks.

Anyways, I am doing a bit better...

Last weekend I took some ibuprofen and we went to the lake. Freed from my excessive inflamation, I was able to swim and even wakeboard for a few minutes. That did wonders for my spirits, to think I still may have some time.

But the next day, the ibuprofen wore off and I could hardly get out of bed, my joints ached so bad. I didn't want to live on ibuprofen every day, so another alternative I found was a very strict vegetarian, gluten-free, milk-free, salt-free, anti-inflamatory, elimination diet, (along with taking my Reliv). Basically all I eat now are certain fruits and veggies (no tomatoes, potatoes, peppers or other "nightshades"), olive oil, and rice. I feel very oriental.

So far I have improved to the point of feeling like I am on ibuprofen, but without taking ibuprofen. The swelling in my fingers has gone down quite a bit too, although my wedding ring I put on a few months ago is still relentlessly stuck. Dang knuckle.

Eventually I can try adding things back into my diet, but will have to watch and see what affects me. Milk is reported to be a common offender, and I've often suspected I might be a bit lactose intolerant...

So... Goodbye, yogurt. Farewell, cheese. Sayonora, ice cream. Hasta la vista cheesecake. Sigh...