Describe Your Body Image
I feel very unattractive as I've put on a lot of weight due to a mixture of my meds and lack of exercise. My face is often very swollen and my eyes look puffy. I feel so ugly that when I leave my home i keep my head down and pray I don't meet any old friends as I feel people look down on me. I struggle to keep myself looking any better than I do, it's impossible for me to do things like wash and style my own hair. Also I can't go to the beauty salon as it's too uncomfortable and painful to sit for long enough to have any care treatments.
I'm so embarassed about my image and I keep going up in clothes size, I hate myself.
How Has Arthritis Affected Your Body Image?
I have put on a lot of weight. I can't wear the type of clothes I like. I look frumpy. I am filled with fluid so my face looks older than it should and I can no longer wear make up.
My hands are swollen so badly my skin looks shiny.
My skin is tight all over and it's always very dry. I can't straighten up due to back pain so I look smaller and I can no longer wear heels.
All my joints are red and inflamed and my skin is painful all over so the clothes I wear are baggy because it's painful when clothes touch my skin. I can no longer pick up small objects - my hands are misshaped. Even my nails look scruffy as I can't take care of them or put polish on them.
I have no body image any more. I never look in the mirror - it makes me cry.
What I'd Do Differently
- I would be going to the gym at least 3 days per week if I was able to and I love going - it makes me feel alive and healthy.
- If I could I would be going to the salon to get my hair done and I wouldn't look as bad, also I would go and have facials and then my skin would feel clean and fresh. I can't do any of this, I have to carry on as I am.
- I don't live my life anymore, instead I struggle through life.
Do you have visible joint deformities?
Arched back and crooked hands.
Do you walk slow, with a limp, or need mobility aids?
I walk very slow and need to use crutches, also I use straps on my hands.
Do you feel unattractive because of arthritis?
Living in pain leaves me with no energy. I feel very unattractive.
Has your body image affected your social life?
I never go out socialising. I don't feel good enough in front of others.
