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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Coon Valley, WI
October 20
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A myRAteam Member

I also find holding a job and having so many Dr appointments very difficult. I’m not one to take off work so it really posed a difficult situation. Also really having to take sick days when flares would take me down.

October 20
A myRAteam Member

Eve I worked in healthcare . We take care of patients but unfortunately taking care of ourselves was always last. We are the worst patients!

October 22
A myRAteam Member

I became self employed which gave me so much more flexibility. What's your area of work?

October 22
myRAteam

Are you considering retiring at 62 due to your RA?

It's a deeply personal decision, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. RA affects everyone differently, and symptom severity plays a big role in how manageable work life remains over time.

Here are some things worth thinking about:

- Physical demands — Jobs requiring manual Show Full Answer

Are you considering retiring at 62 due to your RA?

It's a deeply personal decision, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. RA affects everyone differently, and symptom severity plays a big role in how manageable work life remains over time.

Here are some things worth thinking about:

- Physical demands — Jobs requiring manual labor or long periods of standing can worsen RA symptoms and speed up disease progression
- Stress levels — A high-stress work environment can trigger flares and make symptoms harder to manage
- Sleep impact — If your job is disrupting your sleep, that can increase inflammation and pain
- Mobility changes — As RA progresses, it can reduce your ability to perform work-related tasks

As one myRAteam member shared, their hands stayed swollen and painful every day, making it impossible to stand for more than five minutes — their doctors agreed their working days were over.

Another myRAteam member noted that even on good days, pushing through activities left them unable to function for a week afterward.

Your well-being should be the priority. Talking with both your rheumatologist and a financial advisor can help you weigh the health and practical sides of this decision together.

October 20

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