A new rheumatologist has meant a new look at my condition. There was good news and bad news.
Let's start with the bad news.
I don't just have lupus. I also have fibromyalgia and osteo arthritis.
Is anyone surprised? Lots of lupies have other conditions, especially autoimmune conditions, as well. Frequently, it's not just lupus, it's lupus and some other stuff. It's just a part of the whole package.
Now for the good news.
My lupus is actually inactive at the moment. My current symptoms are all fibro and osteo. (Except for the dry eyes and mouth - those are sjogren's symptoms.)
That means, over the next few months, my lupus drugs can be reduced. First to go will be sulfasalazine. Then, over several months, my methotrexate will be reduced to about two-fifths of my current dose.
A bonus is that the methotrexate may be contributing to my brain fog, so I might have a clearer head as the dosage is reduced.
To treat the fibro, I need to increase my exercise. So, I now need to have a 20 minute walk each day. I also need to get re-started on hydrotherapy. (I haven't been to a pool since my move. Time to get moving.)
Let's focus on the good news : you can reduce your drugs, and you can (must) increase exercise. Hugs, Claire
ReplyDeleteHi Iris, I am also suffering from fibro and I just want to ask if you have tried using cannabis for pain management?
ReplyDeleteI've been suffering with back pain for almost 7 months now and can't sleep properly at night. I already have a prescription meds but I refrain on using them coz it only take the pain for a minute or so and back again. Then one of my friends gave me a joint to try if it makes me feel better and it does! I try asking him what it is but he has no idea also. So I started doing my own research about medical marijuana and strains that would be effective against pain and came across this http://www.ilovegrowingmarijuana.com/northern-lights/.
I'm not sure if that's the strain that I've tried but it has the highest pain management effect. Cbd and thc are all new to me. I also read that drinking it as tea or as a muffin/cake is an option, but is relief effects the same? Why can't they simply make pills out of marijuana - or maybe there are that I am not aware of. If it's true, then I would very much appreciate any ideas and advice on what strain is good and how to use it medically. Thanks in advance to those who'll answer. Daniel
I know there is work being done on marijuana - and what parts of the drug are effective for pain management. I'm sure the pill form is coming. It just may take a while. I honestly can't tell you what's good for pain control and what's not. It's only just become legal here (with doctor's prescription).
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