Lockdown flare

[JoH80]

Hi there, I had a baby in Sept and had a flare around December which I was managing using oral steroids as well as the sulphasalazine I was taking. Things were looking up around Feb and then with the lockdown I was then looking after my 3 year old full time too which has really punished me physically. I’ve gone back up on steroids to 7.5mg and tapering off over the coming weeks and have added hydroxcholoroquine. My knuckles in my hands so very sore and swollen (dealing with a baby no doubt) and I’m having little swollen bumps on my feet too. I’ve only been on the new meds a week but I’m wondering whether I need something stronger to knock this into touch. I am on this medicine due to breastfeeding but this flare feels like it’s causing damage... any advice? How quickly can damage occur? I was diagnosed 2018. Thanks

[Nessa28]

Deep breath , you’re over thinking everything . You have a 3 year old they’re full on with or without a partner and other help , now we add the wonderful addition of a new baby whose is only 7/8 months ,which I might add you are successfully breastfeeding 👏👏👏. You have been in a flair different medication . We entered lockdown 7 weeks ago ,so no nursery full time 24hrs no let up children. My darling girl no wonder you’re feeling rotten . Let’s address you , you’re trying to be a super mum but in your children’s eyes you are . Phone the rheumatologist department that has to be your first job . Also phone your GP speak to one of them and explain all of your symptoms . Unfortunately it’s a vicious circle pain ,no sleep, more pain . Try to make a routine don’t stick totally to it but roughly and make sure it’s workable for you . If the housework slides so what a couple of days won’t matter . If you have a partner please please talk to them, they are never great at picking up signals just remember you will get through this but you need to delegate some of it and discuss somethings . I have 5 kids 3 under 5 I used to hide in the wardrobe and cry sometimes as it’s hard but looking back I always pushed myself to hard to be the best for them ,and when you’re feeling rotten it’s even harder . I’m probably waffling but you’re not alone we’re all here to listen , but please phone and get some advice on your meds 🤗🤗🌷

[Hidden in reply to Nessa28]

A perfect response

[JoH80]

Thanks so much for a quick response! Yes, overthinking is my specialty, I just don’t want to prejudice my health for breastfeeding and the relentless childcare really does exhaust even if you don’t have rheumatoid arthritis! I’ll call the hospital on Monday to check in with my concerns and take it from there. Thanks for the support.

[Hidden]

Hi joh80

So sorry to hear you are having such a rough time. Post baby is always difficult. Can you speak to your rheumy dpt about your feet? Fingers crossed the hydroxy kicks in soon. When do you plan to stop breast feeding? Maybe Methotrexate is also needed?

Take care and let us know how you get on.

Kiki

[oldtimer]

It takes time for damage to happen. Don't panic.

Things will get better and you will be able to cope better as the burdens on you get less.

You are, of course, doing too much, anybody would in your situation.

Ask for help (that's not easy) from anyone who is available.

Off load here whenever you need to.

[JoH80 in reply to oldtimer]

Thanks to you and the others for your replies. Some wise words of advice, slowing down is first on my list! Have a great weekend.