Hello All,

I would be really interested to know if anyone elses RA follows a pattern which mine certainly does.

I start feeling slightly bruised and painful in a joint about 3pm to 5pm each day then it gradually gets worse and by the time I go to bed it is really painful, can hardly walk or lift anything and I have many sleepless nights. In the morning I am fairly ok and can get on with all the normal household jobs and go to work (only 2 hours a day).

I can't wait for the MTX to kick in again, I was taken off it for two weeks in September.

Anne x

Yes i would agree with Heather there-mine seems to get progressively worse as the day goes on.

Anne

RA is not a forgiving disease. The more you do during the day, the more you will suffer at night. It is not easy when you are trying to lead a normal life. I agree with the others that you need some regular painkillers to get on top of it. I take 8 paracetemol a day at the prescribed intervals and leave the strong stuff for the night. My GP said people underestimate paracetemol as a painkiller as long as you take the full prescribed dose and keep the levels constant so that it is built up for the night times. Paracetemol is easier on the stomach and liver. I sympathise with the lack of sleep at night. Last night I had raging toothache in both knees and saw every hour of the clock. Today I have sat on my backside all day and everyone has looked after me and the pain is barely there.

I hope you get some relief soon and that the Methotrexate starts to kick in for you.

Jackie
xx

Hi all

I totally agree with Jackie's post. You must keep the pain relief topped up otherwise it is ineffective. It will not work adequately if it is used as a pain reliever once the pain has started. It must be in your system all the time and reaching its maximum efficacy by bedtime. This applies regardless of whether it's paracetomol, cocodamol or whatever! Try to get your hands on some stronger meds that will see you through the night, perhaps amitriptilline or tramadol.

Don't underestimate the value of good pain relief, it's invaluable when used correctly. It took me a long time to learn and accept but I wouldn't be without it now!

Lyn x

Dear All

Thank you for you information, I will certainly start taking paracetamol on a regular basis and will ask my doctor for something stronger when I next see him in a few weeks time.

Its awful isn't it I've never been one to take drugs of any sort on a regular basis and its tough having to change your life style and rely on medication.

Feeling abit sorry for myself.

Anne x

Just want to echo what Jackie said about paracetamol's. My GP also said that it is one of the most underestimated pain killer.

I have also been told to keep taking painkillers on a regular basis (even though I hate it and have sometimes tried to stop) so I have always got pain relief in me. It is no good just taking the odd one here and there when you think you need it, you have to have a good build up of it in your system to get the best benefit.

Paula x

Hi All

Taken on board what has been said, I have today phoned the doctor and waiting for a telephone consultation to see if he will issue me with a prescription for some strong pain relief.

Thanks Anne x

Hi Anne
Fingers crossed the tramadol help I take 2 every evening and they def help with getting a good nights sleep, hope you start to feel better soon luv Ceri xx

Hello Egg Lady!

Welcome to the forum!
You won't feel lonely again, now that you have joined us, you'll get lots of support and advice on here.
We have all been where you are now, all hate taking the tablets but soon realise it is the only way forward!
Keep posting, looking forward to getting to know you.

Love, Doreen xx

Hi

Julia and Doreen thank you so much for your welcomes... feeling better already. Really. Thanks x