Most people think of aches and pains when they hear about arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, and similar ailments. The truth is, these conditions are complex, and there are still so many unknowns that surround each of them. Yes, pain and inflammation are often a huge part of various forms of arthritis and other chronic autoimmune illnesses, … Continue reading »
Tagged with autoimmune disease …
Can Bacteria or Fungus Cause Rheumatic Conditions? – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
For decades, naturopathic doctors and practitioners of holistic and alternative medicine have claimed that bacteria and fungus are to blame for our nation’s epidemic of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Candida and small bowel bacterial overgrowth have especially garnered attention in the natural medicine communities. However, in recent years, traditional western medicine and esteemed medical doctors and scientists … Continue reading »
Self Esteem, Body Image, and Chronic Illness – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Many of us who live with chronic illness – especially rheumatic and autoimmune illnesses, or conditions that cause chronic pain – can get frustrated at our body at times for seemingly working against us. However, there are other body issues that can come along with being chronically ill. Many medications cause appearance-related side effects: skin … Continue reading »
Kim Kardashian and Psoriasis: Can Star Power Spread Awareness? by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Kim Kardashian — even if you can’t stand her, you know the name. She’s kind of one of those enigmatic figures that you either love, or hate. However, whether you like her or not, there’s no denying her star power. Sure, she may be a celebrity for reasons unknown to many, but, the point is … Continue reading »
An “Arthritis Ashley” Update: Marriage, Lupus, and Loving Life! – Ashley’s Health Diary – Entry #29 – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
July 15, 2011 It has been a while since I’ve written in my online “Health Diary” and updated you all on my health progress and how I’ve been, and so I figured that I am well overdue! First off, I’m now a Mrs! I got married to the love of my life, Mike, on the … Continue reading »
There’s Always Rheum to Be Social! Online Support for Arthritis – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Many folks with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, myositis, and other related rheumatic conditions may have a hard time getting “out and about” to socialize. Friendships and relationships may take a toll; some are unable to work or attend school any longer. So, to avoid the isolation, loneliness, and depression that can often come with a disability … Continue reading »
In a Perfect World – A Life Without Illness: What Would You Do? – by Ashley Boynes
Today there was a “trending topic” on Twitter that simply said, “Serious Question” and provoked users to ask their followers a serious question to answer. I thought about what I’d like to hear from my “tweeps” – especially those who are chronically ill or disabled – and the question I decided to pose was, “We … Continue reading »
Are You Prepared for an Emergency? – by Ashley Boynes
Reflecting on the recent disaster in Japan – and past natural disasters around the world – I wonder how many of us are actually prepared for an emergency. Those of us with medical needs may have to take some extra precautions and may also have more to take into consideration. How ready are YOU for … Continue reading »
Ashley’s Journey to Wellness – Entry #23 – Embracing Arthritis & Autoimmune Illness
Journey to Wellness – Entry #23 – Friday, August 25, 2010 I hope that this entry finds you all well! I’m “hanging in there,” so to speak and enjoying these last couple of weeks of summer! This has been a busy, productive, and lovely week! I found the wedding dress of my dreams, and plans … Continue reading »
Arthritis and Chronic Illness – We Have It, It Doesn’t Have Us! – Ashley Boynes
Life with chronic illness is tough. But we have arthritis, it doesn’t have us. The same goes for any condition or disability that you might be fighting …. from fibromyalgia, to diabetes, celiac disease, to multiple sclerosis, to lupus, scleroderma, ankylosing spondylitis, myositis, felty’s syndrome, sjogren’s, thyroid disease, bipolar disorder, cancer, and more. There are … Continue reading »
