Mysterious bruises

[Dan30cr]

I have mysterious bruises up my forearms accompanying severe cramping and stiffness of joints and redness of knuckles... has anyone else suffered this and is it worth going to my doctors about? Hate feeling like I'm wasting the doctors time, especially when my surgery always seems overwhelmed.

[Maggiet]

Please go to your GP. Them seemingly being overwhelmed is their problem not yours. You may need tests and treatment but either way you'll get it investigated.

[Author_ink]

Yes i have had these symptoms too.

[polymy in reply to Author_ink]

You must go to your GP as an emergency. It may be ok but these symptoms could signify something more serious.

[PMRpro]

It is definitely something to flag up with your doctor and as someone said - their problem if they are overwhelmed, not yours!

But what medications are you on? These signs are common with steroids for example. The cramps may be due to being low on magnesium (in the muscles, the blood levels are probably fine) as steroid make you lose more magnesium in the urine. Supplements often help - or increasing the amount of magnesium rich foods you eat.

[Paulajp]

Hi

I suffer from horrible severe cramps in my legs..... not the normal everyday cramp but agonising, crippling, tearworthy cramp that takes an age to fade, current thinking is that medication is causing it. I also suffer from feeling like I am bruised but there is no mark to show for it. I cannot tell from your post if you have been diagnosed but even so, the other ladies are right you should go and check in with your GP.

Good Luck

[Dan30cr]

Thank you for all your comments. In reply to one such reply i have been diagnosed with lupus but not currently on steroids, I'm on hydroxy and methotrexate. I will make a point of going to the doctors as soon as I can. I still manage to work atm but really finding the hand issues are slowing me down.

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to Dan30cr]

Hi Dan30cr ,

Are your employers aware of your lupus? Have you had an occupational health assessment to see if there are any adjustments or aids that could help you manage better in your role?

If you want more information and advice about lupus and work, we have a couple of booklets which you can read and download at lupusuk.org.uk/working-with... - If you would like physical copies posted to you, please just send me a private message or email [e-mail] with your name and address.

[Dan30cr in reply to Paul_Howard]

Yes to both those questions. But unfortunately since I started the job my condition has only progressed despite regular medication and doing the job is becoming more of a struggle, especially meeting the expected company targets. It may be time to contact occupational health again and see if there is anything that can be done...

thank you for your reply.

[Dan30cr]

Just been to the doctors and have been prescribed prednisilone for a suspected flare of vasculitis.

Was worth going in the end.

[Author_ink]

Yes i have several bruuses. Ive had a dark black bruise on my right leg for many yrs. It never goes away. I love wearing Spring and Summer dresses but hate showing that right bruise on my leg. My joints are constantly stiff and hurt. Ive had Lupus for 2 yrs now. Im in California not UK