Wit's end

I'm sooooo feeling sorry for myself.   3 weeks out from surgery and have to use a walker to get around.  I had to go off my nsaids and haven't been able to walk since...even after losing 50 lbs.

I am suffering through gouty arthritis and also have RA.  My knees are bone on bone.  I'm barely getting by with liquid hydrocodine.  I'm emotionally falling apart all the time and had a big emotional breakdown in front of my supervisor today.   Is it normal to break down like that?  I just feel so awful all the time....body aches, etc.

Please tell me things will get better.  I need to lose a total of 200 lbs and I'm just so tired.

Thank you for letting me vent.  I don't usually allow myself to fall apart like this.

You have to give this time.  I don't think it is unusual to be depressed after major surgery.  You did after all have to show all of those co-morbidity factors.  I think that it is wonderful that you lost 50 lbs!  At least the surgery was successful.  You have to focus on the positives in your life.  Your job may not be one of them.  Lastly, of all your doctor consults, perhaps the most important one is the pain management specialist.  While you are feeling like this, don't be a martyr.  This is very real for you and it needs to be addressed professionally, IMO. 

I also have RA and my first 3 weeks were hell. Also needed to frequently use a walker because my knee was soooo bad. But after two weeks of misery my surgeon ok'd my return to methotrexate. Then my rheumatologist prescribed low dose prednisone. The surgeon agreed with the provision that I take prilosec and call him with any reflux or burning. By 5 weeks out I was in the gym doing 30 minutes on the bike and doing walk aerobics at home. I still have some occasional flair ups, but they don't last long.

Hang in there. Talk to your rheumatologist and the surgeon. You don't have to continue to suffer.

 IV steroids worked wonders for me.  Really consider prednisone or the like.  IV will be easier on your tummy.  

LOL it is fine to vent that's what I have learned from htis group who are the most supportive people in the  world .Arthritis is PAINFUL and everyone here understands that so no worries someone is always willing to listen as the pounds melt the load is lighter and pain will lessen.
Jan

Thank you, everyone!  I'm still not doing so well but have lost 64 lbs so I'll concentrate on that! 

I have a better attitude now and know all will work out.  I appreciate your suggestions!

Can you take steroids or steroid shots to the knees?  Those might help - I do both.  Oral steroids and shots in the knees.  Also, SynVisc or OrthVisc- these shots replace/mimic snyovial fluid and reduce pain of bone against bone.