Body image
I suffer with severe body image issues, and lately I'm gaining weight because I literally can't do anything. I know movement helps with flare ups, but even walking and lifting my foot off the ground is too much for my SI joint right now. I'm unable to work, so just sit around all day in pain and eating. Also not able to sleep due to pain, so that just adds a level of feeling even worse. Extreme exhaustion is killing me.
I see my rheumatologist on Monday.
I used to be so fit, and now feel like my body is just getting away from me and there nothing that I can do about it.
How do you cope feeling like this!?
I can relate. I’ve gained a lot of weight, particularly stress weight in my mid area, since before diagnosis due to pain, lack of sleep, and the stress of figuring it all out. I can’t do much besides walk, and not even that most days.
I spoke with another member who wrote an article about weight gain on this site and it really helped. She reminded me that my body is doing a lot right now internally and is not concerned with how I appear. And to give it grace and time to adjust to medications and find a new normal.
I try to remember that when I get frustrated. I just started infusion and am hopeful that I’ll be able to be more active in about six months. Not to lose weight, but to feel emotionally more balanced.
I also live in my heated blanket when I’m home and in a flare. Reading a lot too.
Sending healing vibes!
Hi,
Yes this is so true as you mentioned. I know it sucks having weight gain. I have gotten the same effects when taking medication. It has made it harder to get off the extra weight. But like you mentioned our bodies are going through so much fighting in a constant battle. The best things is to give it all the love it needs and self care the best we know in our own different way.
I love love having a heating pad. I been saying I need to get a heating blanket and still haven't. Will have to finally do it.
Hope your doing well today. Sending also some healing vibes with warm hugs,Nicky (Team Member)
Hi @tallgirl I hope your appointment with your rheumatologist goes well tomorrow and you are able to find a treatment that can help you get less pain and feel a bit better. Have you tried anything that has helped a bit ?
I am struggling with the weight gain part. Since being on meds it's made it harder to lose the weight I wanted. I recently just started changing a bit my diet, since moving is hard.
Sending you warm hugs with positive vibes for your appointment.
Nicky (Team Member)
I'm so sorry you are struggling with this. Steff, one of our team members, recently wrote an article (linked below) about learning to love her new disabled body that I think you might find some connection with ❤️ I hope your rheumatologist appointment on Monday is helpful- please let me know! I'd love to connect and check-in again after. Sending you well wishes -Erin (Team Member)
https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/living/disabled-body-love
