Pluerisy post pulmonary embolism and Covid 19

[pippin_fort]

Hi, am after some advice. I had COVID back a the beginning of March and am still suffering the aftermath. At the end of April, I had a pulmonary embolism (PE). I have had so many courses of steroids and antibiotics over the last 5 months that I have lost count and my Psoriatic Arthritis has joined the party at various junctures, whilst I have been on this awful journey that seems never-ending. It has been like riding a nasty rollercoaster. Each time you slowly think you are improving something else happens. I have now been diagnosed with post PE Pleurisy which is unbelievably painful. I am still on a low dose of steroids, because of the Psoriatic arthritis and have been on anticoagulants since the end of April, so I can't take Ibuprofen or Naproxen. All I have been given to cope with the pleurisy is Paracetamol plus caffeine and codeine, which I can take every 6 hours. Does anyone have any other pearls of wisdom that may help with the pain? I can't sleep because of it. I have been told to lie on the side that hurts and rest as much as possible. I have tried a wheaty bag and just don't know what to do with myself. If anyone has had a similar experience how long did it last? The Drs have said that they are seeing a lot of people like me with multiple problems post-COVID. Stay safe everyone. You don't want this hideous virus!

[sylvi]

I watched that programme on BBC1 last night and the after effects are not nice and things like your suffering is common. There twin doctors one works in a lab with infectious diseases and the other a dr who travels the world where needed and it is this dr who had covid19 and he had after effects he had to have his heart restarted and he was so exhausted and moody though thats not what he expected. It is a programme everyone needs to see.

Hugs from me.xxx

[pippin_fort in reply to sylvi]

Thank you. I saw it too. The only comfort I took was that I am not alone. However on my repeated visits to hospital I have been told that and my GP has also told me he has about 10 people experiencing similar circumstances. You just begin to ask yourself what on earth is coming next. 😔

[sylvi in reply to pippin_fort]

Its scary isn't it. I dread if i get it i really do especially after watching that last night.xxx

[Dspooky01]

Sorry I can’t suggest anything for the pain, would ice packs help before bedtime? I didn’t see the program but from everything I’ve seen about it, I’m not going to be taking any chances. Best wishes for your recovery xxx

[AgedCrone]

All I can suggest that might help is to put pillows behind your back so that you stay on your side...without pillows you tend not to relax in case you do roll over......so you don’t sleep. well.

Wish you well.....Covid is proving very slow to get over....I hope you turn the corner very soon.

[springcross]

Hi pippin. I can't help with your problem I'm afraid but you have my sincere sympathy with that. I remember in the late 50s seeing my mother suffer with pleurisy - she was literally delirious with the pain and her ramblings scared the life out of me. Then, they used to treat it with M&B capsules (Sulfapyridine), which were an antibiotic and were quite the go-to thing then for lung infections and they worked well. Unfortunately, they are no longer used. It may be that they can't give you more antibiotics because as you say, you have had so many courses of them in five months. I think AC's suggestions of putting pillows behind your back so that you can stay on your side is a good one, at least then you may be able to go to sleep. I really hope you find something to help whilst you ride this b----r of an infection out. All the best to you. xx

[rounder]

Really sorry to hear how poorly you have been. Covid is a horrible thing, my sister in law got it in Sore and still has chest pain, she is currently being investigated for severe anaemia possibly linked to it.

I had pleurisy a number of years ago and found heat packs helped a little. I use a v shaped pillow in bed for good support (I have back trouble) which I pull down on one side to support myback, it may be worth trying one....As a bonus I touch my not patch between my and it to keep it in place!

Wishing you improving health, rest well and be gentle with yourself. Xx