Over the last 6 months while my disease has been active I have seen muscle tone waste away and (courtesy of the steroids) my weight increase.

I have been on Azathioprine for a month now and my appetite has definitely reduced so I hop that will allow me to shed some weight. I think it is also staring to have a tiny effect on the disease in that pain is not as diffuse as it was (although it is still painful enough in the core areas (hips, feet, hands)). I am still plagued by fatigue. Just today I walked the dog and helped with the housework (light dusting duties only) and had to sleep - forced myself up after an hour and half but could have stayed in bed a lot longer.

I walk the dog daily but it's a chore when it used to be a pleasure. I have an exercise cycle (one of the ones with a reclined seat position). I don't swim and hate gyms. We live on a very steep hill so light walks are a drive away.

Any suggestions on how to build up fitness, or is it too soon to be thinking about this - should I be concentrating on felling better first? I sense it's a complex issue and that felling fitter will help me feel better. But I also feel too tired to exercise.

Is there a cycle I need to break here? I am seeing my GP next week to discuss. Is this is topic that Rheumy nurses can or should advise on? Sorry for so many questions.

Hi Paul

Know what you mean about exercise! You say you don't swim but just getting into the water and walking around is very good for joins. As you know, the water supports the joints, so aquarobics, or your own form of water based exercise is good. I love to swim, but our gym doesn't have a hoist, and I can only just walk let alone climb or descend pool steps! The local leisure centre is good though. Can you ask your GP for some hydrotherapy, or is there a pool locally? The warmth plus the water is wonderful but does tire you out!
Let us k ow how you get on-I'm always trying to her fit!

Take care

Jean