Is this a flare

[Gailrossi]

Hi

I think I’m experiencing my first flare. Iv only recently been diagnosed with RA and have questioned if I had the right diagnosis as apart from joint pain occasionally I didn’t feel that bad. But the last few days I can’t use my hands hardly at all my hips and right shoulder are also very painful. I know it sounds naive but is this a flare.

Thanks in advance

[Hidden]

It probably is.. everyone’s flares are different some follow a pattern but can often vary. I’m quite lucky I don’t suffer pain so much more achy. For me it’s stiffness,swelling, lack of mobility and the dreaded fatigue.

For the pain take painkillers and ibuprofen (if it’s really bad see your Gp for something stronger)alternate with cold/heat pads or an Epsom salts bath. All these things may help. Sometimes nothing does. If it continues or gets unbearable ring your clinic support they may give you a steroid injection . It’s so difficult when you don’t understand it can been frightening.

I hope it passes quickly. People on here understand so ask any questions sharing really does help.

[Gailrossi in reply to Hidden]

Thank you so much

[helixhelix]

It might be, but since you are so newly diagnosed it might also be that the MTX hasn’t yet controlled the disease which is getting more active.

Were you give. The number for a rheumatology nurse or helpline? As could be worth telling them and seeing if they think it would be appropriate to give you a steroid shot.

[Gailrossi]

Thank you so much

[Wayne82]

Flairs come in many different forms, sometimes i just cant move for pain and stiffness other times I feel as though I have a flu or really fatigued and others it's all three at same time! I hope you feel better soon