Hi I've had upper arm pain which may be a rotator cuff issue (apparently those with RA are susceptible) this is getting worse and is becoming a problem. My GP has set up a physio appointment for me in 3 weeks time.
In addition there's some RA type pain in right thumb joint/wrist (a new location for me to add to left thumb and right foot!) and some grumbly aches in knees and hips which could be osteoarthritis who knows! However none of this is debilitating or restrictive, but I'm concerned with holidays etc. coming up as I don't want anything to get worse.
I'm currently taking hydroxychloroquine and sulfasalazine. My bloods have always been fine so no positive RA diagnosis from them.
I contacted the rheumy nurse who did the inevitable blood test which was fine and checked with consultant. The suggestion is that I take a course of Prednisolone to 'test' if the arm pain is linked with RA - I'm a bit wary with so much covid around and want to know if I would have to shield when taking them. The nurse wrote to me with this proposal so not able to discuss it.
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Rambling9
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I think it is a choice you can make, depending on your circumstances, the dose you are taking, and lifestyle.
A short course that tapers quickly is far less risky that a high dose taken continuously for over 3 months. Your wider risk also comes into play. Are you over 80? With comorbidities such as diabetes, obesity or lung disease? Does your lifestyle mean you come into contact with a lot of different people every day. I’d say you need to do what you feel comfortable with. I’ve never shielded as I would not have coped with the restrictions, but live carefully instead.
I have been on pred for almost 3years now anything from 5mg cope with pain levels to 30mg for chest infections and my RA asthma (as my GP calls it). When on 30mg I tend to be more careful than on 5-10mg as I know what I need to do when I am out.
The original advice for people on your medication was to shield if you had taken greater than 20mg a day for at least 4 weeks. However, that was before we had the vaccines.
As Helixhelix has said it’s probably a choice you can make based on lifestyle, comorbities etc.
I've been on oral prednisolone for 5 years. Presently on 12 mgs a day. I'm still careful where I go. I avoid crowded places, wear a mask when in shops, but far from shielding. Family and friends do a LFT before visiting, but I'm back at the spa and undertaking my first flight soon.My rheumatologist has given no advice throughout the pandemic.
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