Rheumatoid pain

Grahamf1

I have been on methotrexate for about 6 months. I have been getting consistent short flare ups for months. While I was driving for my job today I started getting a pain in my elbow and slowly moved down to my hand then up to my shoulder. The pain is now in my left and right arms. Is there any suggestions on what I can do as last time i saw the rheumatoid nurse she told me I was relatively stable as my flare ups are short and only last a couple of days but the pain I have is excruciating.

Woofy

Hi.

Best contact your rheumatology nurse for advice. I had horrible pain for weeks on end with my flare ups. I had to take steroids periodically. If your flares only last a couple of days, can you take paracetamol? I also find the pain can come on quite suddenly.

I now have an automatic car, which I find so much better to drive. No gear changes, which were painful for me. I am on Methotrexate injections, and a tablet called Leflunomide. Maybe if your flares aren’t well controlled, you might have to look at your medication. Good luck.

PJoanne

Hello @Grahamf1

I would try and get to talk to your rheumatoid nurse or even your GP surgery purely to get this new symptom on record if nothing else, also you should not have to tolerate excruciating pain without being offered alleviation, regardless of the duration. Maybe it's time to challenge the 'relatively stable' label as your flare ups have been consistent for months?

I can second @Woofy for automatic cars. Much easier on the joints.

Have you been able to read from the VA resources about RA?

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/

Best Joanne