Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Arthritis and Rain Don't Mix!

I have  heard people complain about achy joints when the weather gets bad but seeing it happen is painful for me!  This morning Alex had a pre-scheduled doctor appointment but while waiting in the waiting room I decided to take a new picture of her hand.  I was so surprised to see how swollen it was!  It didn't take long for me to put two and two together.....it's the weather!  Not only did her finger joints look red and painful but her knuckles were no where to be found.  The top of her hand is swollen and puffy. 
The doctor ordered another MRI to see if there is any progress that she could not see through the swelling. 
 If the swelling is the same or worse then we will be adding the dreaded Enbrel.  Now....this is only dreaded because I (or Ben) have to give it to her in a shot! I know its not as hard as it seems and that I will do just fine but who wants to have to give their child a shot.....EVER! Here is a little info on Enbrel for those interested.  

Enbrel is used to relieve the symptoms of certain autoimmune disorders (conditions in which the immune system attacks healthy parts of the body and causes pain, swelling, and damage. .Injection may decrease your ability to fight infection from bacteria, viruses, and fungi and increase the risk that you will get a serious or life-threatening infection.

As always thanks for the prayers.  I will update you when anything changes.  If you or someone you know has experience with Enbrel I would love to hear about it.  My neighbor Shelly is currently on Enbrel and has nothing but great things to say about it so that is comforting.