Manjinder from Calgary asks: I have rheumatoid arthritis. Is it ok if I keep working? Is it good for me?
Years ago, the answer to this question would be very different. Older data suggest that half of patients with rheumatoid arthritis will be disabled and unable to work after 10 years with the disease. Today, this is unlikely the case, as treatment for rheumatoid arthritis has improved; our goal of treatment is remission, meaning no pain, stiffness, or swelling, and ideally doing everything you want to do in life. This includes the ability to work. For some individuals, it may not be a realistic goal to work while rheumatoid arthritis is still active, and some find it hard to return to work later on. Ultimately, each person needs to be comfortable with their choice, as there are many different factors to consider when it comes to work. However, work itself is not going to make rheumatoid arthritis worse.
Posted: August 15, 2016
Tagged: disability, rheumatoid arthritis, work