First: RA is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue. It’s debilitatingly painful, causes joint deformation, and is difficult to treat in some (lucky me). It can affect organs, too.

Second: Osteoarthritis is common, age related, and happens gradually over time to most who live long enough or have had joint injuries. It’s not autoimmune, it occurs naturally.

Let me show you with these two photos of my hands:

The first one was taken in 2017 when I *first* had symptoms but was dismissed for the next 6 years. At that time, I was diagnosed with #hEDS connective tissue disorder (correct) and it wasn’t further investigated as autoimmune pain (wrong). I finally got diagnosed with #RA in 2023.

The second one was taken this morning. This hand now has constant pain and stiffness. I’m on 3 different medications trying to keep my disease under control.

I’ve used my hands my whole life to enjoy many different hobbies (sports, music, photography). It’s been devastating to lose, but I’m doing my best.

🫶 TY for reading.