Hello to all, this is my first posting and I'm familiarizing myself with everything I can about Enbrel before I decide when to start taking it.
I am 65 this year and on long term disability for Ankylosing Spondylitis, Osteo Arthritis, RA,
insulin dependent diabetes and such. I have a good family Doctor and a very good Rheumatologist as well as a top notch Endocrinologist for my diabetes. I worked in the health care profession for many years, so had some good contacts to receive good care. I am also very proactive about everything concerning my health.
I had to "retire" five years ago due to the back pain and side effects from the medications I was on for the AS and RA. Fortunately I had good health care coverage and have had five years of good coverage and facilities. Things will change when I turn 65 in June and I will no longer receive my disability cheques but will qualify for old age pension and an increase in my Canadian CPP payment. My Levemir insulin (which was wonderful stuff) is not covered by my insurance company now - so have switched to Humalog mixed (it is covered by seniors health coverage). Each medication change comes with a few wrinkles and now I have been offered the chance to receive Enbrel (which is covered by insurance also). I have the video and have been reading all I can find on it and hope to make my decision soon, as to whether or not to start it.
Your forum offers lots of information and that's where I am at - this evening.
I am on Methotrexate that I inject once a week, Meloxicam, Tylenol Arthritis strength,
Insulin of course, and other meds for thyroid, high cholesterol, and blood pressure. Everything is under good control and my Family Doctor takes great care of me and answers all my questions. I make a list before my appointments so I remember everything to ask.
Two years ago I had my left knee replaced and it went very well. The Levemir kept my blood sugars level through the entire surgery and recovery. I followed instructions and had good results with my new titanium knee joint.
My husband and I moved from the city to a small town in the country to assisted living where there are no sidewalks to shovel in the winter and no lawns to mow in the summer months. We are in the foothills of the mountains and couldn't be happier with our new home. I am receiving injections in my l4 l5 SI joints for the pain in my spine that is so bad
at times, I cannot walk around the block entirely. The injections are done with x-rays and freezing and I had good results with my last injections in the fall. The pain relief was amazing but only lasted 7 weeks. Now it is March and I am due for another round of injections at the end of the month - hopefully the pain relief will be longer this time around.
I got walking poles for Christmas and as soon as the snow melts and the roads are clear I hope to be able to get out and move a bit more than I did this winter. The pain gets very nasty at times and that's why I'm considering the Enbrel. My goal is just to be able to get around my neighbourhood and keep my weight under better control. I have gained weight since I have retired.
Last but never least - is the fatigue that is a constant battle. I am still able to drive and I watch my Grandkids once in a while but don't do much other than play and read to them.
Everything requires super effort and I am careful to rest when my body says "It's time" but I'm hoping the Enbrel will give me some mobility and more chance to be upright instead of resting in bed.
That is my manuscript and any suggestions would be appreciated.
The Rosiebeast is a childrens book reference.....LOL