Rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia help

[Oojammyflip]

Hi,

I've read a lot of helpful posts ln here, so thought I'd try. I am 26 and was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis a year ago (it's barely under control) however I have just been diagnosed with fibromyalgia too. I was wondering if anyone has any advise?

I'm struggling to work full time, I keep struggling on and am unable to get any support, do you guys have any tips, helpful ideas etc? Would be exceptionally grateful!

Thanks in advance.

[sylvi]

I have both and i also have cfs and sadly i can't work. As you are working and i am assuming it is full time. Try and take breaks if you can during the day and rest. Can you change to part time work as that will help you. Hugs for you as i know it isn't easy.xxxxxx

[Riedenise]

I have both Ra, fibro and Oa. I've had to cut my working day down from 30 hours a week to 16 hours a week last July after having the previous five months off sick due to Ra flare and fibro. I'm now at the point of looking at going down the medical retirement stage from work. I cant carry on any longer, the pain I'm in, the fatigue is so bad . Its hard at times to know which one is causing the pain. In the muscles I know is down to the fibro but in the joints?? My shoulders I carry on thinking is down to Ra as I've had it so many times in those joints.

My work have been brilliant, I have a stool to sit on I need to, I have a bottle of water with me, I can use the customers toilet behind my work desk, I can use the goods lift (saves the 6 flight of stairs to climb up and down) a break if I need it in my 4 hour day. But is the continuous pain and fatigue that as I. Cant get through now to carry on working. I have a very good Gp that is supportive.

You need to pace yourself at work, take regular breaks. I hope that you have your Ra and fibro down as underlying health. You are covered by the Disability Act. Maybe cutting your hours, like Sylvi will help. Struggling through your work day then going home in tremendous pain and exhaustion doesn't help You or Partner/ family. I know , I've been that person.

Have you been given any medication for your fibro? Sometimes I feel the fibro pain is worse than Ra. Its constant, burning,stinging in your muscles/tendons , joints etc. I take Amitrytline at night it helps to give me some sleep at night, not a full night, but any helps.

I wish you well my lovely. X

[barbieg]

Hello, I've had Fibromyalgia since my 30s I am 72 now, and RA for 12 yrs. The only help I've ever had for fibro is a pill at night to help me sleep. I've tried most and have given up on them as for some reason I can't string a sentence together the next day. I also was diagnosed with oral lichen Planus 2 yrs ago( another auto immune disease) and the amytriptaline makes my mouth so dry and sore. I usually find a massage gives me more relief than anything, which my hubby tries to do for me ( he has RA too ) it's very painful at the time and I'm often in tears but it does help. Not a solution if you live on your own unfortunately. I agree you have to learn to pace yourself, but Fibro is not easy to treat. It's very misunderstood, even by doctors, and it's so painful. You have my sympathy, I wish I could help you more. I also use magnets a lot too. The small discs for my neck and shoulders, and a type of belt with magnets if it's my back, hips.

[EmmaS-NRAS NRAS]

Dear Oojammyflip,

Sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis. If you're struggling to get your RA under control, do go back and see your consultant. Our helpline are available as well if you want to talk about work, or any other topic (0800 298 7650 or email [e-mail]).

You might also find it helpful to have a look, or get in touch with, Fibromyalgia Action UK - fmauk.org/

They also run a HealthUnlocked community: healthunlocked.com/fibromya...

Kind regards

EmmaS-NRAS

[amulla1]

Hi there,

The moment we get diagnosed with RA its like waking up from a nightmare. Uptil then life felt so normal and then all of a sudden out of no where your life feels paralysed.but the bad days or Flare ups last only for few days. Are you taking any medication for your inflammation?.

Try to slow down when the pain is too much. Take a break from work if possible.

Sometimes just soaking in a warm tub with Epsom salts relaxes your joints and muscles. But whenever you feel good be active, do some gentle exercises. Please do not lose heart, there are ways you can deal with it. As you are in the early stage, the best thing you do to yourself is to change your lifestyle. Introduce Low-fat Vegan diet & exercises & meditation into your life. For more info Google

The Paddison Program for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Great info in there particularly for RA folks.

Good luck. Take care.

Aishafik