Struggling to manage symptoms and life - advice please after returning to work.

[F1zz]

First week back in the classroom, part time in New role after taking 3 years out whilst being under diagnosed. Determined to get life back - joined a spa so I can swim/yoga on days off and try and get fit and lose weight. After my first week I have a mouth full of ulcers, a lumpy face, and ibs type symptoms. How do balance it and not get ill? Am I doing something wrong? I also have two children so having energy for them is vital. I was officially diagnosed in December and haven't seem a doctor since or had any check ups bloods urine etc. I have put myself on steroids twice during lockdown to ease symptoms after calling lupus nurse. I just feel a bit lost.

[svfarmer]

Hi I’m so sorry your feeling so rough at the moment- have you seen a Rheumatologist at all ? I have Lupus SLE also and am in Methotrexate which I have been on for 4 years now that ease symptoms. Apart from the steroids are you in any other medication for your Lupus? Your not doing anything wrong - Lupus is a very up and down condition , I never know from one day to the next what I am going to be like. I struggle with fatigue and rest as much as I can but guess this will be difficult with 2 children and going back to work for you. If I were you I would either go back to your GP and get them to chase up an appointment for you or chase up an appointment yourself to see your consultant so they can get you on some meds to help with your Lupus.

Best regards xx

[F1zz in reply to svfarmer]

Thank you, I'm on hydrochloroquine. I saw a rheumatologist in December and I'm supposed to see a nurse every 3 and rheum every 6 but not heard anything since December I guess cos of lockdown.

[svfarmer in reply to F1zz]

It may be you need to go on something stronger - I had to stop taking Hydroxychloroquine as it messed with my eyes - I’ve had no side effects at all from the Methotrexate so maybe they will try you on that but definitely chase up an appointment - good luck xx

[RosieA]

Hi F1zz. There can be little doubt that after only a short absence returning to the classroom is an exhausting business. I dont' know what age range etc but it's always a shock to the system even after the hols, let alone 3yrs. My only advice is to give yourself a little settling in time - perhaps reduce other activities until you have adjusted and then slowly add them back in. I know you are quite rightly concerned about keeping healthy but 'running' around a school, the hubub, noise and speed of interactions is quite a physical and mental feat and always takes more out of ourselves than we give it credit. You sound determined but be kind to yourself - it's all about balance and your body will guide you. Is it time for a check up maybe?

P.S As an old hand - try and ensure that all around you appreciate that part-time is part-time. xx

[F1zz in reply to RosieA]

Thank you. You are right returning back in the middle of a global pandemic has added to the stress!