Things you should never say to someone who has RA

I've dealt with several types of people before my diagnosis and after. Some of these people I would've loved to sock them in their face. Thank goodness there are more who mean well but there are some things that you should not say to someone who has  RA or to anyone who is chronically ill. These illnesses rob us of so much already so the last thing we want is a verbal slap in the face. So I've compiled a list of these things.

1. It's all in your head, you're faking, or you just want attention.  I was told often by a few family members and friends that it was all in my head before I was diagnosed. I found this to be the most hurtful because the last thing you need is for someone not to believe you.

2. Aren't you too young for that? When people hear arthritis they assume that it's an old persons disease. They often mistake it for osteoarthritis which is caused by wear and tear and is commonly seen in the elderly. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease which can strike at any age.

3. My great aunt Flo had that and she cured it with.....! Most likely she did not have RA because as of now a cure has not been found.

4. You should not be taking all those meds they are dangerous! Yes these meds are strong meds with plenty of side effects but they are needed to slow down the progression of the disease and it is more dangerous to be off of them.

5. You should exercise more! Many people who have RA were very active before they were hit with it. I myself worked out six days a week. Yes exercise is important but those with the disease now have to find workouts that are ready on your joints. You also have to find balance because if you over do it on your good days you can spend days recovering.

6. Are you feeling better yet? Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic illness, meaning you will always have it. You may have periods where the pain is not as noticeable but it is always hanging around.

7. Losing weight might help. This is not so easy for RA patients because one of the drugs that are commonly used to treat the disease are steroids, these cause weight gain.

8. But you don't look sick! Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an invisible illness. the disease is doing its damage on the inside of the person.

9. The pain can't be that bad. The pain excruciating I wouldn't wish it on my enemy. There's no way of you knowing unless you experience it yourself.

10. Here take a Tylenol it will help. Trust me Tylenol will not touch the pain. Major pain meds are often given to help control the pain.