fatigue

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gypsy14
gypsy14 Non-active member Posts: 15
edited 8. Apr 2010, 15:31 in Living with Arthritis archive
hi all
I hope some one can help
i'm currently having a flare up (RA) and can cope with the pain however i am off work due to being too exhausted to complete the daily routine of showering, driving, dealing with people all day etc.
is it normal too feel this tired when flared up? I I am feeling guilty regarding being off due to exhaustion rather than pain.

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  • joyful164
    joyful164 Non-active member Posts: 2,401
    edited 30. Nov -0001, 00:00
    Hello gypsy

    We have all been there and the work issue will certainly be something you will need to think about seriously. I don't know what type of work you do,but if it is clerical, then see if you can make a referral to Access to Work via Job Centre. They will come along and see how they can make your work station easier to manage. They assess any type of work.

    If anything is needed to be purchased to help your work, then the cost is split between Access to Work and your employer.

    Fatigue is the worst part of it all. Fighting pain is a problems and perhaps your gp/ rheumy consultant could refer you to a Pain Clinic.
    If your employer is happy to let you, then you are required to have a rest from your workstation at certain times throughout the hour.
    If you go through Helpline, I'm sure they have got a handout which might help also.
    And do not feel guilty. It is unfortunate that a lot of people do not understand how dibilitating Arthritis is.
    Joy
  • bubbles
    bubbles Non-active member Posts: 6,508
    edited 30. Nov -0001, 00:00
    Hello Gypsy

    I would never have understood the fatigue that is caused by both RA and OA, until arthur joined my life. We cope with the pain, well, most of the time, but, it does wear you down and make you very tired and or depressed. That, along with medication and side effects, all add up and take their tole. Definately speak to the helpline, they are really good and will offer sound advice for you, about work etc. Take care and rest. XX Bubbles.
    XX Aidan (still known as Bubbles).
  • gypsy14
    gypsy14 Non-active member Posts: 15
    edited 30. Nov -0001, 00:00
    thanks to every one who's answered my fatigue question. It has been great to hear from you all. I have just went out and spent some time with my horse and dog which has lifted me emotionally even though i am still very tired. they always know when i am not so good and are even more considerate than usual.
    hoping to return to work by monday (sore) fingers crossed!
  • cthornley
    cthornley Non-active member Posts: 627
    edited 30. Nov -0001, 00:00
    I'm afraid its completely normal sorry

    My RA is now pretty much under control - i've had it for 12 yrs now - but the fatigue of a flare still floors me

    I'm finding it especially difficult as its impossible to explain to my 22mth old son why mummy can't pick him up and is drifting to sleep at every available opportunity - he still wakes me up at 6am so its very difficult staying awake in the evenings when i'm bad

    hope you can work through it ...just remember there is another side :?
    Chrissie
  • gypsy14
    gypsy14 Non-active member Posts: 15
    edited 30. Nov -0001, 00:00
    hi chrissie

    Sorry to hear you are having a bad time at the moment. I hope you are not too badly tired tonight and can have some quality time before bed.
    Thanks for taking the time to reply to my message it can't be easy coping with arthritis and a wee one however it sounds like you are doing a great job. xx

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