Hi everyone,
I'm 36 and have just had my diagnosis of RA confirmed by a rheumatologist. I had first onset of symptoms in May and I've been taking diclofenac to control the inflammation for about 3 months.
I was given a steroid shot on Friday morning and the doctor said I wouldn't need the diclofenac as the steroid would control the inflammation, so I haven't taken it since and I've been feeling pretty dreadful. I feel fatigued and down, aches throughout my body and inflamed and sore in my two main sites (hands and feet).
I'm holding out for the steroid to kick in but it's been over 72 hours. I'm afraid to take the diclofenac again in case it's a withdrawal flare (does that even happen?)
I've been doing a lot of reading and trying to get my head round the diagnosis but right now it's all a bit scary and I feel worse than I did the day before my diagnosis.
They're starting my on DMARDs in January.
Advice would be really appreciated.
Sinead