Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Lucy Update


okay, so Dr. Stotts called us today and said that she tested positive for Rheumatoid Arthritis. So the next step for Lucy is to see a Rheumatologist. They are referring us to one in Idaho Falls, so at least we don't have to travel as far. He said that most likely the medication that they will put her on will control the inflammation and she will be able to live life normally. That was good news. So I had no idea what this thing was and I'm sure there are some of you who don't either. So I looked it up online and here is a little bit to explain why this is happening to our little Lucy.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
"Your immune system protects your body against foreign invaders such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. But with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the immune system loses its ability to tell the difference between these foreign invaders and the body's normal cells. It begins to attack those normal cells too.
The damage starts when your immune system begins to weaken your joints. Unlike minor injuries that heal over time, the deterioration of bones and cartilage within the joints caused by moderate to severe RA does not go away. Even without serious symptoms, RA could be irreversibly destroying your joints.
One of the basic ways your immune system protects your body is by increasing the flow of blood and immune cells to a threatened part of the body. This produces inflammation.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progresses in three stages. The first stage is the swelling of the synovial lining, causing pain, warmth, stiffness, redness and swelling around the joint. Second is the rapid division and growth of cells, or pannus, which causes the synovium to thicken. In the third stage, the inflamed cells release enzymes that may digest bone and cartilage, often causing the involved joint to lose its shape and alignment, more pain, and loss of movement.

Because it is a chronic disease, RA continues indefinitely and may not go away. Frequent flares in disease activity can occur. RA is a systemic disease, which means it can affect other organs in the body. Early diagnosis and treatment of RA is critical if you want to continue living a productive lifestyle. Studies have shown that early aggressive treatment of RA can limit joint damage, which in turn limits loss of movement, decreased ability to work, higher medical costs and potential surgery. "

So. Stotts said that it is better for a young child to get it because their bones and joints aren't fully developed yet. So since we caught it early we are going to be able to control the inflammation and she should develop normally. this is assuming that her body takes well to whatever medication they put her on. So lets pray for good results. Thanks everyone for your support. 

Bonnie

9 comments:

Sandy -- As Told By Mommy said...

Well, I am glad that it looks like it's going to work out and she will be able to live a normal life! That's excellent! But one thing...off topic...your font is way too small. Give lucy a hug from me. :)

M. Harrison said...

We are glad that you finally know why she has been having trouble in her neck and knees. It still amazes me that the doctors before were inept at really trying to help her! I'm sure that it is a comfort to finally KNOW. She will be in our prayers. Love you!

Randi said...

Bonnie my mom has RA you should talk to her about it. That is crazy that you can get it so young though.

Mishali said...

I am so glad that you guys have been able to figure out what has been going on with Lucy!! She is just a beautiful little baby and I'm sure you will find that after getting her medications all figured out, you will have a totally different little girl running around! What a great day that will be to have her able to do all the different things that kids her age do! She is beautiful! Your family is beautiful! Your faith strengthens mine! You guys are a great example to me! You are in my prayers!!

Chris, Lori and Morgan said...

I am so glad that you were finally able to figure out what was going on with Lucy so now you can start to treat it! It was so great seeing you guys last week and we can't wait to see you in a couple of months! We are thinking about you xoxoxo!

BJ said...

Glad that you at least know whats going on now. Mom has had RA for many years. For a while she couldn't go upstairs because it was so bad, but they finally found a treatment for her that worked. You might want to talk to her about it, and ask what you might expect for Lucy. Its crazy to think you can get it THAT young. Mom was in her thirties I think when it started to be an issue for her

BJ said...

Also why did you choose a font that was soo small? I had to hit CTRL+ about 5 times before I could read it!

Bonnie and Tyler said...

Sorry about the font... I pasted and copied most of it. I will make it bigger.

Annelise said...

I'm praying for your little one. I love you guys. :-)