The First Year: Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed

by M.E.A. McNeil, Kenneth Sack (Foreword)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a disease characterized by inflammation of the joints, is one of the most disabling forms of arthritis and affects over two million people in the United States. Without proper treatment it can lead to long-term joint damage, chronic pain, loss of function, and disability. From the first moment of her diagnosis, author M.E.A. McNeil took charge and educated herself on every aspect of her condition. Now, as a "patient-expert," she guides those newly diagnosed step-by-step through their first year with RA. McNeil provides crucial information about the nature of the disease, treatment options, diet, exercise, social concerns, emotional issues, networking with others, and much more. The First Year--Rheumatoid Arthritis is an essential resource for everyone who wants to be an informed, active participant in the management of their condition.

Genres: Nonfiction

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 20, 2005

Reviews

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I purchased this book about 4 months after I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). I believe I'm still in a certain amount of denial having been diagnosed with a chronic disease. However, this book provided a wealth of information. M.E.A. McNeil, diagnosed with RA herself, has written a comprehensive easy to understand book. The book covers topics ranging from medication, diet and exercise to intimacy, travel and entertaining.


I was comforted by the fact that prior to writing this book, McNeil was once wheel-chair bound and totally inactive, but now is better able to deal with and manage the disease. I've never been one to look at the bright side, so her words of wisdom and experience are very encouraging.


I know that I will return to this book again and again as both a reference and a form of reassurance.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

After struggling with arthritis for thirty years, I was finally diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and immediately felt vindicated. I had been through a long list of NSAIDS which did not help and only made my stomach hurt. Now, I am finally taking more appropriate medication. Even though I already knew much of what is in The First Year: Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed by M.E. McNeil, I was very happy to get information that I can understand to answer many of my questions.

The author takes a comprehensive approach that includes how to handle stress, plan your activities, organize your information for your appointments, the differences between the common medicines for rheumatoid arthritis and nutrition and exercise among other topics.

The most valuable chapters for me were the one on medications and "joint protections and adaptations.

I would highly recommend this book to all newly diagnosed people with rheumatoid arthritis.

[Marian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank goodness for a practical, helpful guide that doesn't promise some miracle cure based on eating more carrots or cutting out gluten. Loved it!

[Daniela · Rating 5 out of 5]

My mom was recently diagnosed and I bought this book for her. I read it on the plane while flying to see her and I found it very enlightening. I didn’t know much about this autoimmune disease, and the author does a great explaining and talking about RA from different angles. It’s great that she gives a plan of action to follow and makes the patient accountable for their own progress in fighting this crippling disease.
I learned a lot, I took notes, and now I feel I can talk to my mom about what she’s going through and be understanding. I think this is a book that not only patients, but families should read as well.

[Friscomama · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like other readers, I chose to read this book after being diagnosed. It was very informative, and full of comforting advice about coping with the problems that arise. I had a feeling that the inclusion of the positive thinking and making the best of things was a bit repetitive from chapter to chapter. Hard to say, since I am still a bit annoyed at having this stuff messing with my body. I would recommend the book to others interested in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Usually these books are depressing but this one made me laugh out loud a couple times while having lots of useful information presented in an understandable way.

[melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

so I didn't get around to reading this until I'm into my third diagnosed year of RA but I'm glad I finally found it. I mean, who knew that someone could make RA funny?! My joints are exploding and I feel like I have the flu...hilarious! I'm glad there is a book like this out there - something that's not all scientificky or medically but also not a mopey woe-is-me. Super informative.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Straightforward, honest, helpful. Gave me questions to ask my doctor and ideas for things to do now in the mild stage of the disease to prevent or to better cope with the disease later. This and a publication from the Arthritis Foundation have been instructive and empowering.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first source I've found on RA that is neither alarmist nor pollyanna. I wish I'd known to start here... the tone is heartening but also realistic.

[Riko Stan · Rating 5 out of 5]

very informative, but also sorta scary.The author tells you to keep a positive attitude, then tells you what to expect from the disease.... The future isn't as bright as it once was.

[Summer Sterling · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good information, but terribly repetitive.