[Grey Matter]

I was recently "diagnosed" with either Lupus or RA, there is more blood work to be done to find out which, but chronic internal inflammation has been diagnosed. I am scared to go on medications for pain (my brother died due to medication complications) but it's getting to the point where I feel like my hair hurts. I have taken two showers today that have eased some of the joint pain/swelling, but I was curious to see if anyone had some pointers or suggestions for easing pain.

Thank you.

[pegasus]

Hello Teen Idle,

I have RA and I have found it is important to take regular pain relief and to keep mobile as much as possible. The stiffness is the worst thing with the constant gnawing pain, keep moving though it hurts. I'm fairly new to this also and I don't like taking pain relief but I've been instructed by the doctor to keep the pain relief regular so that it is more affective.

Hugs

[Grey Matter]

Thank you so much for the reply.

I am going to stick with taking my advil (and drinking loads of water) to help manage to inflammation. I walked a lot today and it did help some, but I feel like I am paying for it now. But I suppose my body needs to adjust. It just takes time and I know I need to slow down.

((((hugs))))

[yellowted]

I find keeping my joints warm helps a lot, especially my legs as they do not move on their own. I never go out without a fleecy blanket folded over them. I also have some gel filled heat pads which heat up when you click a metal disk in them so they are great for taking out to use in the evening when the air is cooler, I put them in my gloves and in my boots, I even have a large one I put behind my back running down my spine. a heated under blanket on my bed gives relief during the night, though it is way to hot at the moment for it, it is great if I get really cold or am really hurting. I
I also use a tens/emg/massage unit which works for a while if I want to stretch out the pain meds.
moving around is by far the best option if you are able to, but swimming is good too as you use all your muscles without the pressure being on them. I always feel better after an hour in the pool even though it is only my arms working as the water supports the rest massaging me as I swim!