A Young Wife’s Tale

TMJ Disorder is a very broad diagnosis. Dr. Bender has actually diagnosed me more specifically with a sleep disorder and facial pain and some other medical jargon that I can’t remember now. For more information about TMJ Disorder, check out The TMJ Association website.With our current health insurance, we do not get to select our own dentist. The new dentist actually asked me, “Why do you think you have TMJ Disorder?” After I explained my situation to him, he tried to sell me orthodonics to correct my open bite and “infantile swallow” which he said would cure me. I explained that I’ve had two sets of braces, a bite guard, multiple retainers and a recent consultation with an orthodonist who confirmed that it was not in fact anything orthodonically causing my TMJ Disorder.I’ve noticed recently that it’s becoming harder and harder to whistle. It’s not such a horrible thing. I don’t need to whistle. It’s just an example of how my jaw and mouth isn’t working properly. Also, I’ve been having trouble enunciating the past week or so. I’m sure it’s just because David has been in such bad shape and I’m stressed. I just don’t want anyone to think I’m slurring my words ’cause I’m drunk.

Here’s an overview of the Flare Up Diet. It’s what we eat when David’s Psoriatic Arthritis flares up and he’s bedridden. Breakfast Possibilities Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls Cereal Lunch Ideas Delivery Pizza Delivery Chinese (If you have a Jimmy John’s in your area, they deliver, too!) Peanut butter sandwiches Dinner Options Frozen Pizza Leftovers Whatever some [...]

If you take care of a loved one with a chronic illness or an invisible illness, what do you do when you get sick? Here are a few tips. 1. Call a friend and ask them to bring you soup or cough syrup. Send them a text message or email if your throat hurts. 2. [...]

1. Make sure you have a support system. For me, this is my family and a few close friends. You may want to utilize a Sunday School teacher, a counselor, or a support group for caregivers. Check out Rest Ministries Hope Keepers groups.
2. Take care of yourself. Exercise, eat right, have a hobby. The healthier you are spiritually, mentally, and physically, the better you will be able to help your spouse.
3. Educate yourself. Read everything the doctors gives you. Do research on the internet. Read up on your health insurance. Get to know your pharmacist and ask them questions about your spouse’s meds. Knowledge is power.

This has been a hard week for me. Nothing bad happened. David didn’t flare up. I’ve just felt tired, physically and emotionally. I’m so ready for David’s arthritis to be in remission. I want the house to be sold.