Hi there,

You do not mention your age however, I am 34 years old with SWCAH diagnosed at birth. I have taken several meds over the years and my experience is that I feel best on dexamethasone. Plenty of energy, less essential tremors (and thicker hair!) Unfortunately it also makes me carry the most weight. (180 lbs on a 5,3 frame with thin wrists and thin ankles) But I feel my best.

In the past few years, since having a baby (little girl, non CAH) I have suffered from dizzy spells and high blood pressure. (Which my Endo tries to control.) I am currently trying to have another baby.

I do feel stiffness in my joints and I do have wicked bursitis in my hip that I do not know whether it comes from age or CAH (steroid use) but I do feel older before my time.

What I do know is that I am very fortunate to have a controllable condition that has allowed me to live life without everyday needles and long hospital stays. So what if my joints ache and I’m overweight and I have to take pills every day to live and need extra attention when I get sick. I get to see my daughter laugh and learn and grow.

If your job is taking a physical toll on you, then perhaps try to find a different venue in which you will be more comfortable. Perhaps it is not so much your CAH that is hindering you but simply the physical demands of your job.... Perhaps talk to your endo about increasing your steroids to give you more energy.  You haven’t missed out on the newest treatments if you start taking advantage of them now! It’s better late than never and maybe you will feel much better in your golden years and enjoy a long retirement!

I wish you well and lots of energy!