Just checking in

[Heinrich7]

It’s been awhile since I posted. Diagnosed with PMR July 2018. I had been doing reasonably well. Have been back to 2-3 shifts in Home Care every 2 weeks for the past year. Was finding that my recovery time from working was getting longer and longer. This last time, I’ve realized I’m not getting better. Lots of fatigue, heaviness and stiffness. Saw my Rheumatologist and now am off work to rest and look after myself. It will be a challenge financially. I hope things work out for hubby and me. I used to be a go getter, always busy. Life has completely changed. I am currently at 2.5 of prednisone. Have been tapering very slowly to get to that dose. RA says to stay on this. Continue to taper when I feel ready. Also have some blood work to do for her to check for inflammation level.

I am 68. Also was addicted to Ativan in late 80’s. Meaning I needed more and more to do the trick. Took me a year after gradually going off to feel normal again. I was on it for four years. I would not recommend Ativan or Lorazepam, only for dealing with temporary difficult circumstances.

I find Effexor XR 75mg helps for imbalance of serotonin. I was on it for 6-7 years then decided I’d like to go off. Tapered successfully but after about a year realized my anxiety and depression were bad. My life is better emotionally and I am happier on the antidepressant.

From time to time, i have read the posts on here and i find them informative and helpful. This is a fantastic professional resource.