It's been a bit of a funny week. As with anything RA-related, the only thing you can be sure of is that it's always going to surprise you. Last time I had a steroid injection it worked like magic - no pain, and the swelling disappeared within 2 days and stayed away for a year and a half. This time it's been pretty tough, with the injection causing a steroid flare and MEGA increase of pain for a few days and not really bringing the instant relief I was hoping for. Today, 5 days post-injection I sort of feel like I'm heading in the right direction but it's really not been plain sailing and I'm not sure if it will work properly. I do feel a bit better today but I don't know if it will continue to improve or if this is it. I guess I have to wait and see. I don't understand how it can be so different from one time to the next. What's changed?? I hate this disease.
I have a check up appointment on the 13th June so I guess I will see how I am by then and discuss my options with the doctor. I guess the positive is that apart from the damn hand I feel well, so that's something to be very grateful about.
I am also very grateful for my girlfriend. I've been quite down lately, as I tend to be when I flare (thoughts of impending DOOM tend to descend upon me during these times - I can be very dramatic!). Last time I flared I was single and did my usual routine of crying, feeling sorry for myself and retreating into my room. This time I've taken a different approach and just tried not to spend much time on my own at all. I avoid thinking, because thinking leads to worrying. I have just been spending all my time with my girlfriend who is very understanding of my problems but also very good at cheering me up and making me laugh. I can't believe how much a hug can help me when I feel at my lowest. It's really nice to have some support this time around.
*sigh* I'm sorry the shot didn't help as much as it did last time hun... but you know what? I'm super happy that your girlfriend is helping you focus elsewhere :) It is so wonderful when that happens. I've noticed around my boyfriend my pain levels are at least half. I wish I could bottle whatever he does just by being around and carry it with me at all times.
ReplyDeleteA little bit of support can go a very long way toward making it easier to get through a nasty flare, that's for sure. It's good that you're not having to cope with it alone this time, but I'm sorry you're having such trouble with the steroid injection, Squirrel. There's just no way to predict how RA will behave. You're right that it's one of the hardest things about this disease.
ReplyDeleteI'm sending all the warmth, care, and patience your way that I can. Be gentle with yourself, okay? I hope each day will see you feeling better and better.
Steroid injections are a mystery to me. Sometimes they take awhile to work and yes, they can cause some increased pain after the injection. I wish this one was that quick magic bullet but maybe, just maybe it will work for you in the long run. And wooohoooo...you have someone to dance your life away with :-) Yes, I am figuratively speaking but so happy for you!
ReplyDeleteI'm with you concerning these steroid injections. One time magic, next time not so magical. It's rough and understandable to correlate thinking with worrying. I am glad you have your girlfriend in your life. Loved ones can make a difference, that's for sure. I hope you are feeling better soon.
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Thanks guys! The hand is feeling a bit better now, maybe it's slowly taking effect.. Stupid stupid disease. Nevermind eh, onwards and upwards as I always say. Focus on the positive!
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