Flare up that has lasted a month

[Nannydewdrop]

Hi I wonder if anyone can give me some advise. I have had RA for 4 years. It was well controlled until I got vasculitis last year, which is now clear. I now have very painful, swollen joints, particularly in the wrist, hands and ankles. I take hydroxychloroquine and sulfalazine. How much should I exercise and does it aggravate the joints? Unfortunately the hospital I am under only has one RA nurse and I have never seen a physio. I have an appointment in September, but not easy to get an earlier one. Help please, what do you do when you have a flare up?

[donmounsteven]

Hello Nanny I am the same hydrox and sulfal did not work for me .Had to stop taking it 3 weeks ago. I got a bad rash .I am on pregnisone right now for pain and swelling. I will be go on methotrexate in a week. Pregnisone in the only thing at work for my flare up. hope it helps and hope things get better for you god bless

[Nsmith13]

Steroids work for me as well, know on hydroxy but my knee has swollen right up can't walk I've been ok for a few weeks see my consultant in August I'm only taking 5mg of predis might need a bit more now

[helixhelix]

Generally I don't push swollen or hot and tender joints. I stick to simple range of movement type exercises, slow walking and gentle stretching. If a joint is very inflammed then harsh exercise can be damaging.

As for your flare, I hope you've got through to your rheumy team. Do you have any strong anti-inflammatorys you could use for a few days? Or go see your GP to ask for help, like a short course of steroids.

But if you've been flaring for a month it could well be that you need a review of your meds as they are no longer working as they should. Keep pushing for an earlier appointment and I hope you get one.

[Nannydewdrop in reply to helixhelix]

Thanks, they have just changed the medication to sulfalazine so feel need to give it a chance to work. I have found some gentle exercises on an arthritis website, also trying gentle swimming. Thanks

[ruth_p]

I usually ring the rheumatology helpline and they usually manage to fit me in. They can also advise your GP about giving a steroid depo injection. 🙂

[Hessie5]

Hello - for me very gentle exercise and stretching. I also take a relaxing Epsom salts bath and if my foot is extremely flaring run very cold water or hot over it! (it has to be one or other) to help. I make my own essential oil pain mix (oregano with olive oil) and rub that into the affected area. I drink lots of water too. Lastly, I would take a paracetamol to get me through the day. Rest in all of that is key! Wishing you well. -Hessie

[Nannydewdrop in reply to Hessie5]

Thanks for your reply, really useful. Been swimming this morning and found some useful , gentle exercises on an arthritis website. Will try the Epsom salts as well. Thanks

[DelicateInput]

tyty