Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns or treatment changes
Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis is a path marked by resilience and constant adaptation, and a deep reliance on God. My journey took a significant turn in 2009 when I first visited a rheumatologist. Since then, I have navigated a long road of various pain medications, and I am now transitioning into a new phase of treatment: outpatient infusion therapy.
Understanding Infusion Therapy
The image shows the clinical outpatient room I am in. There are several large brown leather infusion recliners, an IV pole with medical equipment, a television mounted on the wall, and various medical utility carts and bins.
For many, outpatient infusions become the next step when oral medications no longer provide sufficient relief. These treatments deliver potent biologic medications directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system for 100% absorption. This targeted approach can be more effective at reducing severe symptoms, such as chronic inflammation and joint damage, compared to traditional pills.
During an infusion session, you can typically expect:
- A Professional Setting: Treatments occur in a specialized clinic or suite where medical staff monitor your vitals throughout the process.
- Comfort: Most sessions take place in comfortable recliners. You can often relax, read, or use Wi-Fi during the session, which can last anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours.
- Support: Unlike self-administered treatments, you have immediate access to healthcare professionals who can address any concerns or mild side effects, like fatigue or a slight headache.
Preparation the Day Before
- Hydrate Intensively: Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours leading up to your appointment. Proper hydration makes it much easier for nurses to find a suitable vein for the IV.
- Avoid Dehydrators: Stay away from coffee or alcohol the day before, as these can dehydrate the body.
On the Day of Treatment
- Warm Your Veins: If you often have difficult IV starts, apply a warm pack to your veins before the nurse attempts the stick. Heat helps plump up veins and can also feel good on arthritic hands.
- Eat a Light Meal: Have a nutritious but light meal or snack before your session to maintain energy levels and prevent nausea or dizziness.
- Dress in Layers: Infusion suites can often feel cool. Wear loose-fitting, soft clothing and layers (like a zip-up hoodie or cardigan) to easily roll up sleeves and regulate your body temperature.
Essential “Infusion Bag” Items
- Comfort Staples: Pack your own cozy blanket, a neck pillow for resting, and even thick socks or slippers if the clinic allows.
- Personal Care: The clinical environment can be dry. Bring lip balm, moisturizer, and eye drops (like the TheraTears) to stay comfortable.
- Distractions: Bring a tablet, headphones for music or podcasts, or a physical book to pass the time during sessions that can last several hours. You might also find comfort in your Scripture Journal for quiet reflection.
- Tech Needs: Remember to pack chargers or a portable power bank for your electronic devices.
Throughout the Session
- Speak Up: If you feel any discomfort, a chill from the IV, or any new symptoms during the process, inform your nursing team immediately.
- Post-Infusion Monitoring: Track how you feel in a simple notebook or on your phone. Note any mild side effects like fatigue or headaches, as these are common but typically resolve quickly.
Managing Daily Life and Pain
While medical treatments are vital, small daily habits can also offer relief:
- Warm Water Therapy: A long, warm shower or bath can be one of the safest ways to reduce morning stiffness. The heat improves circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to sore joints while relaxing tight muscles.
- Joint Protection: It is important to listen to your body’s warning signals. Experts recommend avoiding activities that require a strong grip and using your strongest joints possible to complete tasks.
- Self-Compassion: Chronic pain can be isolating. Shifting your internal dialogue to focus on what you can do, rather than what you can’t, is a powerful tool for resilience.
Walking by Faith, Not by Sight
Chronic pain can be a heavy burden to carry alone, but we are never meant to carry it by ourselves. Turning our worries over to God brings a supernatural peace that medical treatments alone cannot provide.
Faith changes how we view our daily struggles with RA by:
- Renewing Our Strength: When physical energy fails, resting in God’s presence provides a deep spiritual refreshment that helps us face the next hour.
- Shifting Our Focus: Prayer and reflection move our eyes away from physical limitations and point them toward God’s infinite grace and daily blessings.
- Providing Community: Sharing our burdens with a church or prayer group reminds us that we are lifted up by others who care for us.
Anchored in Faith
In the midst of physical challenges, I find great comfort in my faith. Scripture reminds us that we are never alone in our struggles:
- Psalm 30:2: “Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me”.
- Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”.
- Proverbs 17:22: “A joyful heart is good medicine”.
The road with RA isn’t always easy, but each step forward is a victory. Whether through new medical treatments or the support of a faith community, there is always hope for a fulfilling life.
Bible Study Tools I Use
- NIV Bible
- King James Bible
- www. biblegateway.com
- www.biblestudytools.com
- Map Pencils
- Strong’s Concordance
- College Ruled Spiral Notebook
- Ballpoint Pens
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