Faces of Sjogren's: Karen's Story
When I was diagnosed with Sjogren's, my first thought was....
"That explains a lot" Dryness, fatigue, and pain would describe how this disorder has affected my life. Sometimes I feel like the inside of my mouth is in a wind tunnel in a desert. Sometimes I'm so tired I fall asleep talking with people. And at times every part of my body is in pain.
I was diagnosed two years ago at the Mayo Clinic (after many years of symptoms) and fortunately found a wonderful rheumatologist who walks with me every step of the way. So I take a handful of medications in the morning and some more throughout the day. I am grateful to be diagnosed and that there is treatment that does tamper the debilitating aspects of this disease.
I try to do everything I can to maintain general health - exercise, nutrition, rest - and then I just try to forget about it and hope for the best. A strong spiritual life doesn't hurt either. Oh, and a good support system helps. People who know when to tell you to go rest, and who know when to encourage you to get moving.
I'm blessed that having this disease has caused me to have the best health habits of anyone I know. And it's prompted me to slow down- try to worry less and enjoy the day more. Before my diagnosis I felt physically miserable, unable to function and a bit crazy. A big shout out for early detection and intervention!
-Karen