Lupus awareness day 20

 Hi Everyone!

Sorry for not being on top of lupus awareness, however, during this month I have not been feeling well and had to take a bout of prednisone. I'm feeling better now. Also, a week or so ago I had to get a potassium infusion. My body doesn't hold potassium. I do take supplements, and eat high potassium foods but every once in a while I need a 4 hour drip.

Some of the things that doctors notice is how someone with lupus holds their hands. Like constantly rubbing them or holding them close to ones body.  Hand pain is a constant for most of us. I wear compression gloves most of the time. 

I have small hands so the small size is a little long in the finger but they sure do make my hands feel good. What are the reasons people with lupus have pain in their hands?

During the course of the disease, approximately 95% of lupus patients will have joint symptoms − either arthritis or arthralgias. Arthritis in lupus is due to inflammation of the lining of the joint (called synovitis) that leads to swelling, tenderness and out right pain and stiffness. Arthralgia refers to joint pain without swelling. 

This is also refereed to as "inflammation arthritis" and affects parts of the joints that are  away from the middle of your body. Hand, elbows, knees and feet. Most everyone I know have a hard time with their hands and feet. I call them my lupus feet. I do wear compression socks too. To treat this most doctors go for OTC NSAIDS. Depending on the stage of lupus steroids, biologics and methotrexate or hydroxychloroquine. I don't take any of the prescription meds except prednisone. The side effects were worse than the lupus. 

Everyone has to do what is right for them with this disease. However, the fight is the same.

Hope everyone is having a good day.

Nicole