Hi Rosie, I have been admitted into hospital on a couple of occasions for steroid infusions during bad flares in the last 2 years.
Both times they have brought very quick relief.
The first time it did not last for much longer than a month but I was very busy and quite stressed at the time, we were moving house. The second time I continued with oral steroids afterwards and it helped a lot, but I was able to rest much more after it. I think how much you are able to rest and relax makes such a difference to the success of these drugs and the progress of RA.
They did have some side effects for me, mainly a very rosey face, could even be called a beetroot look!! and feeling as high as a kite!!
Apparently many moons ago, steroids were given generally by infusion, but not so much now.
Be interesting to hear from others, particularly those who have had RA for a long time.
Zena x

Hello

I've had this a few times.
I have to say my rheumatologist have by and large stopped doing this.
That's because the evidence is that the benefit is short lived.
And the side effects higher due to the huge amount of steroid given.
They've found depomedrome injections better.
So they tend to give them and repeat them as necessary.

Jenni x

Jane, the gp can come and give you a stab at home. I will message you on twitter xx

never even touched me waste of time