Hi Bettie,
Welcome to the "club". This is a place where you can learn a lot about our dumb disease.
To gauge your new rheumatologist's GPA expertise, you may want to ask how many Vasculitis patients s/he treats in a year. If it's a small number, you may want to either be seen or have your doctor consult with a Vasculitis specialist. (There's a list on the Vasculitis Foundation web site.)
It is possible to lead a close to normal life with GPA. Take your meds as prescribed, lead your life as fully as possible, get some exercise (within reason), and eat healthy. Four years ago, I was coming off a major flare and was unable to do much of anything. Now, I lead a life that's very similar to my pre-GPA life, which was pretty active.
You mentioned confusing GPA symptoms with those of aging. I can relate as I turn 70 next month. If you have a new symptom, follow it to see how it progresses. If it persists, talk to your doc and see what treatment is recommended. I had roaming joint pain (sore hip for a few days, pain free for a few days, new pain in knee, etc.) that turned out to be the beginning of a flare. Just be aware of what your body is doing.
Pete
dx 1/11
"Every day is a good day. Some are better than others." - unknown
"Take your meds as directed and live your life as fully as you can." - Michael Chacey, MD
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