Feeling worn down, aching and sometimes close to tears.

[IdasMum]

As requested by my rheumy I dropped slowly to 9mg of Pred over last 6 months.

Mark is 7 weeks post TKR and doing well (ish) but now has Gout in his toe.

I am still carrying most of the weight of daily tasks although before the Gout he was beginning to pick up some stuff.

My CRP had risen slightly in the last blood test and I am almost certain that this is down to the reduction in steroids. As I said in my previous post, I think I heard her say that the PMR hasn't gone.

So, I have made a decision to go back to 10mg until 2nd Jan 2025. I have a blood test due on 23/12. Will see what my CRP is then.

I will then come back down (slowly to 9mg) and make a judgement.

I think what I need is some reassurance I am doing the right thing?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

If your markers are rising AND there are symptoms that is usually pretty strong evidence the pred dose is too low.

Or you could split the difference - use the flare protocol and return to 9.5mg,

[IdasMum in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you. I took an extra 1mg this morning. Will reduce to +1/2 from tomorrow.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to IdasMum]

You may have to clear out the dust first before settling at the dose.

[Angelsmummy]

Sorry you are feeling this way Idas mum.Feel for you,as I am in the same boat having to take a lot of the load so to speak.It gets to us doesn’t it feel worn down with it all,and tears flow easily when we feel this way.All I can say is be kind to yourself,you are ill and need a bit of TLC,is there anybody you can off load to?I sometimes have a good old cry in the bath when OH can’t hear me,let off some steam so to speak,then it seems like a release valve,and I feel ok.Hopefully you will feel brighter soon ,and the advice given by the wise ones on here will help.Sending a big hug to you,xxx💐

[IdasMum in reply to Angelsmummy]

😍😍

[IdasMum]

Coming back to this to see when it was I went up to 10mg. I forget to keep tabs! I didn't used to forget to be organised and keep track but I do now.

So, I went back to 10mg and stayed there for a week I think and have forgotten if I felt better. I think I did. Then came down to 9.5mg and over the last 4 days have begun to head back to where I was. Aching, lacking in energy, cancelling social stuff. It seems to take me until around 4pm to come alive. Cooking our easy midday meal today was a drag.

I have a blood test again tomorrow and will be interested to see if my CRP is up. Will up my steroids after tomorrow and see if I can feel better.

Thea (still not yet 8) is in Newfoundland for Christmas.

Child feeling snow on her tongue.

[IdasMum]

So. Little change to my CRP so I'l remain on 9.5. My ESR is 45, nearly double last time, so I guess I am brewing something. I haven't felt great for a few days, maybe i am coming down with something.

Have a great Christmas every one.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to IdasMum]

That is a possibility - need it checked in a week or two.