I was diagnosed with Scleroderma/Polymyositis overlap last May. I believe it first started in 2008 but I just thought it was fatigue from working too much but when I had less work I got even more fatigued. My family doctor could not diagnose the leg pains and weakness I had and so it was only when I was having an operation for Carpel tunnel syndrome and I explained to the surgeon some of my symptoms that he referred me to a rheumatologist.
I have not been working since last March when I had my operation.
I have more strength but the fatigue is still there. I can go for about an hour and then I need a break. I work in a shop and have to stand all day. Normally we cannot sit down. How long have others had to stay off work? I keep looking for other work but in this climate there is nothing suitable.
I also have some heart weakness and carrying heavy items causes me to get breathless and I feel so weak and must sit down.
I try to walk for at least an hour every day and write my exercise bike at home.
How long have others needed to get back to normal health, or does it never happen?
Irene
I do not have polymyositis, I have scleroderma limited. I have worked until I was 72 by doing what I can. I am very bad at not working or being busy, because then I feel all my problems which I forget when I am busy. So I cannot speak for you. We are different.