First real bad RA flare up is this normal? TIA

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Hi there

I have been signed off from my very physical job for TWO weeks I am gutted I hate being off work my team are so nice and I hate putting them under pressure by making them one team member down

I have had RA for about two years I have managed it well. I am waiting to go back on Sulfazalozine (I came off for personal reasons also I was so tired on it and got headaches and I kidded myself that I was in remission as I seemed to be managing well for 18 months without it. I won't be making this mistake again) I am 37 years old

Woke up a few days ago with both knees exploded and very swollen and all fingers the same the pain is like a full constant ache. I was mortified as I'd only ever had it in one right knee before

Anyway went to my gp due to new symptoms (the fingers and other knees) she signed me off for two weeks I thought it was excessive at the time however it's not subsiding

I thought the swelling would have calmed down by now but on day three This is ny pattern

Wake up stiff and swollen for three hours

A manable but slightly painful throbbing for the day (as long as I don't walk round too much)

Knees swell in evening

And repeate pattern each day 😭

Is that even normal will this go on for the whole two weeks?

I don't want my boss to think I am taking the p*ss she is a nice lady with 40 years of nursing experience

TIA

0 likes, 2 replies

2 Replies

  • Posted

    I use heat packs a lot, works pretty well.   I'm untreatable so far, none of the meds have worked, so I only have flares when I move.   Needless to say I do move so am always in a state of Flare - heat packs every night from around 5 until bed.   I also use celebrex and Tramadol.   Celebrex seems to soften up the swellings.

    • Posted

      OH Tony that sounds awful i am so sorry. The heat packs sound like a good idea thank you I will try that

      Such a horrid condition. I hope you find somthing soon to help

      Do you think it's normal for a flare to last 2 weeks? Xxx

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