Insights appreciated!

dibdab
dibdab Member Posts: 1,498
edited 4. Oct 2012, 11:31 in Living with Arthritis archive
I'd really appreciate the insight of your collected experiences please!

I had a chest infection 2 weeks ago- antibiotics and steroids sorted it, but as soon as the steroids finished I started a mega flare of my RA- there is barely an inch that doesn't hurt and I'm more tired than I have words to describe- reluctantly I've had a second week off school but it doesn't seem to be getting much better, particularly the exhaustion when I do even a bit of housework. :o

So- how long is it likely to go on? I'm due back at work on Thursday but the thought of 30 six year olds reduces me to the verge of tears, and using a pen is really painful. I wonder if any of you have any tips on how to get back to what I laughingly call normal these days? I'm wondering whether to ring the rheumatology help line tomorrow and ask for advice, but suspect they will suggest another steroid jab, and they just keep awake all night- feels like a viscious circle.

Sorry- it sounds like a mega moan- but I really would appreciate any insights from anyone.

Thanks

Deb x

Comments

  • LignumVitae
    LignumVitae Member Posts: 1,972
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I'm not sure what you are on meds wise but could you up those? I reckon call the helpline but say you don't want a steroid shot and explain why.

    Good luck, if it makes you feel better about it all, the thought of 30 six year olds would reduced me to tears even at my fittest.
    LV xx
    Hey little fighter, things will get brighter
  • Numptydumpty
    Numptydumpty Member Posts: 6,417
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    What a horrid situation to be in. I totally agree with LV, about ringing the helpline. It does seem though, that you need more time off. I know that's difficult, (I do remember being in a similar situation myself) but you really don't seem ready/ well enough to go back yet.
    Thinking of you, and wishing you well,
    Numpty
  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,764
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I'd ring them too, Deb. I don't know why the chest infection should cause a flare (My RA is often a bit easier after antibios) but, as for how long it will last......well, we're in piece of string territory here. Also, I've never had steroid jabs keep me awake at night though a hefty whack of pills did.

    Anyway, it sounds like there's no way you can face a classful of healthy, energetic 6 yr olds so I think the helpline is your best bet. Please let's know the outcome.
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • julie47
    julie47 Member Posts: 6,041
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi Deb

    I hope you rang your help line and that they came up with a plan for you.

    Wishing you well

    Love Juliepf x
  • suzygirl
    suzygirl Member Posts: 2,005
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I agree with the others, unfortunately you need more time off and to ring the rheumy help line. Its tough when you are flaring, but try not to stress as that makes it worse.
  • dibdab
    dibdab Member Posts: 1,498
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thank you all for your kind thoughts. I've had my gold injection today, and rung the rheumy helpline who have arranged a steroid jab tomorrow at the hospital-I'm bowing to the inevitable!! Hopefully it will click in fairly quickly- still not sure about work on Thursday- if it's no better I'll be going back to the doctor's for another note I think- pointless to go back when I'm not fit enough to cope with the children. Sometimes it would be lovely to have someone else make the decision for you-I'm hopeless at deciding to take sick leave-OH describes it as my ferocious work ethic- personally I think I'm just incapable of a decision!!!!!! :?
  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,764
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thanks for the update, dibdab. I think deciding whether or not one is fit to go into work is always a tricky decision. With all those 6 yr old though you will need to be fit. I hope the jab helps. And the gold injection.
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • dibdab
    dibdab Member Posts: 1,498
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thanks Sticky.
    Just to update, got a steroid injection yesterday, been back to GP today because of pain in my side- she thinks I may have pleurisy as an after effect of the earlier chest infection, so more antibiotics and another week at home. Luckily my headteacher is kind and caring and sent a message to say take time to get better, so the decision to stay home is made.

    Deb
  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,764
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Good. It seems like that's one decision that took care of itself. I hope you can relax a bit now. That, in itself, will help a great deal.
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • merri
    merri Member Posts: 190
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Firstly have a gentle hug. My RA flares are often due to chest infection or a bug, something to do with the production of more white cells which then attack the joints even m,ore? I think that was what the nurse said anyway.

    I'm going to be a complete and utter hypocrit here, I'm a teacher too and I would say don't go in until you're ready. The job is hard enough as it is, with the "normal" RA issues without a flare on top. I'm glad to hear that your helpline has been able to help, hopefully the steroid injections will help you to get back to normal soon. Take care
  • tillytop
    tillytop Member Posts: 3,460
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi Deb

    Just to say hope the steroid and the antibs kick in for you very soon. Really pleased too that work are being supportive and that the decision to stay away from work has been made for you.

    Thinking of you and really hoping you feel better soon.

    Love Tilly xxx
  • dibdab
    dibdab Member Posts: 1,498
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thank you all for your care and encouragement. Just had a lovely nap! :)