Painful fingers update

[Lin-lou]

Just to update my post 10 days ago incase anyone is interested (particularly "Amkoffee") in what my GP had to say today. A reminder, the painful/swollen fingers seemed to have become part of a "flare" which also included pain in my upper arms, shoulders and outer thighs. I had been reducing alt days 9/8 mg so after excellent advice on here I remained at 9 mg for a few days. However, as had similarly happened on two previous "flares" and after reading my notes, I decided to do what I did back then - again after reading other posts on here - and upped my dose to 10 mg in the hope it would zap the inflammation away. Not quite, but after a week it has certainly reduced the pain and stiffness, a little bit more each day. So, at my appointment with the doctor today, a locum GP who I have seen on other health issues, I quickly related recent PMR problems and after a kindly, sympathetic discussion she suggested I carry on with 10 mg for another week but then if pains not gone, to go up to 11 mg. I would add that on the two previous "flares" it took two weeks and four weeks at 10 mg daily each time to get me back to pain-free. I will see what happens by the end of next week. To guage my daily improvements this week, (my "rule of thumb" 🙂) I gave myself a little test each day on waking up. The test (both hands) is to touch the thumb to each finger tip in turn!! A week or so ago it was impossible to do and far too painful, but now I can, with only a little discomfort and stiffness. I also did the recommended fist clenching and fanning the fingers to help loosen the hands. My arms, too, are much improved and I am able to raise them without hitting that ”ouch, no more" point. If only I could also get over the awful tiredness and lack of energy, too, but as I am trying to remember, patience is needed, and no more trying to reduce my steroids dose before my body is really ready for it or when other circumstances don't make for an ideal time to try, either.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Good - and a sensible locum to boot!!!!

[Lin-lou in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks PMRpro. Yes, she was wonderful, especially as we'd never discussed my PMR before! She sat back and really listened and then gave sensible advice. Sadly she will be leaving in a month, but told me to make an appointment for a follow up before she leaves. All this as well as other health issues sorted. I came home quite elated! Just shows what a bit of understanding can do, rather like it is given on here by you and a few special others.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Lin-lou]

I'd be asking if she was continuing as a locum places or has she a "real" job to go to. In a local practice!

That's how it should be!

[Lin-lou in reply to PMRpro]

Yes, I thought along those lines, too! Then I blurted out - "Will you be back?” "No, I just do locum work at the moment." Half joking I said, "Oh, that's a shame. Couldn't you please get a permanent job here?” She then gave a little laugh and seemed pleased when I thanked her for all her help. I'm not saying my regular GP isn't good, but this Doctor seemed really "on the ball" and it was so refreshing.

[Jackoh]

It's so encouraging isn't it when you feel a doctor has listened and has really tried to understand. It does lighten the Spirit ! X