Arthritis Flare - Day 5

I ended up calling my rheumatologist before the holiday weekend to get some Prednisone just in case and yesterday, I finally caved and started the dose. I am a big supporter of less meds is more but I know that I would not be doing what I am doing without my medication. My right elbow is still giving me a lot of trouble so I  just want to get it under control again. I knew its as bad when I was having trouble reaching out to pick up things or even washing my back in the shower / brushing my teeth. Today I woke up feeling pretty overall just drained and ill so just going to plan on taking it easy. I unfortunately had to cancel a clinic shadowing experience which is always just an added hassle. I hope that the medications start to work and that I am feeling better soon. My plan is to call my doctor tomorrow if I am still not feeling well to see if I should come into the clinic. I forget how frustrating this disease can be when you just want things to be normal. Makes me appreciate everything that I am able to do when I am able to do it. I found this website that made me chuckle and I'm hoping it can help some of my other fellow RA patients as well: http://www.rheumatoidarthritisguy.com/you-know-you-have-rheumatoid-arthritis-when/

I had a pretty successful training weekend (except for the fact that I haven't done any swimming since last week Wednesday) and even managed to get a bike/run preview of the half Ironman Racine course  while Jenny was taking her USMLE Step 1. Shout out to her and so proud that she is finished the biggest exam of her medical career - I know she rocked it. I can't believe Racine is already in 13 days AND that today marks the 2 month point from Ironman Wisconsin so things are getting real. I think a lot of people wonder how I am able to run/bike while flaring and its not that I don't have pain, of course I do, but I have found that the exercise often helps me stretch out and feel better by getting the adrenalin going and joints moving. It is way better than just laying in bed for hours on end. I find my mind wandering to all of the what ifs..what if they have to drain my elbow, what if I need a cortisone shot, what if I can't keep swimming training as much as I want to/need to, what if this is the time the medications stop working for me... but I keep reminding myself that there is no point in worrying about anything I can't control. Just need to take it all in stride. Here's to hoping the flare turns around soon. Sincerely, one frustrated Ironman-with-rheumatoid-arthirits-in-training.