I've been in close contact with my rheumatologist since I've been having a lot of issues lately not related to the training. Primarily in my elbow and this passed week in my jaw. I wasn't able to chew food without having pain or close my mouth. It has just been a lot of problems which tells me something is going on and I need to get on top of it. My rheumatologist and I have a really great relationship and he is absolutely excellent at his job so first a shout out to Dr. McKown at the UW! We weighed the pros and cons and we both agreed that it was a good idea to restart my other two medications. It is always disappointing to hear you need more medications to manage something, no matter what disease you have. I like to think that my experiences as a patient will help me be a better doctor in the future, and who knows maybe even a rheumatologist. The new meds mean weekly blood tests for awhile now and some unpleasant side effects. We both agreed it was probably the best move with the stress of school and my increase in training just as a safe guard. So like anything in life, there is some give and take but at the end of the day you have to take care of yourself.
I also think that as someone who has had a chronic disease I cannot emphasize enough the importance of talking with your physicians. Letting them know your goals and your wants and listening to what they say. Together you can reach a plan that will fit your lifestyle and you will be more likely to follow through since you had a say in the matter. Don't ever be afraid to speak up as a patient or say no.
"Running has given me the courage to start, the determination to keep trying, and the childlike spirit to have fun along the way. Run often and run long, but never outrun your joy of running." -Isphording
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