Hey there plumb -- I don't know what your specific flare-up symptoms are, but I know the duration of flare-ups can really vary with each person. My flare-ups consist of really bad swelling and pain in my joints and ongoing fatigue. I have a really good rheumatologist at cedars sinai and as soon as I feel a flare-up coming on she gives me an intramuscular steroid shot and the pain/swelling is gone within a day or two. However, I don't take daily steroid medications (i take plaquenil and anti-inflammatories) and I don't know if these shots would have a negative interaction with any meds you are taking. I also don't know if they work for everyone. But I just thought i'd throw it out there since they really help me a lot! Maybe you could ask your doctor and if someone else here knows more about these shots maybe you could enlighten us both.

Thanks

Hi plumb,

this is a tough question because everyone is so different. I have experienced flares that would last for a few weeks at a time or even just a day, but this latest one has lasted months and I haven't a clue why it has suddenly gone so wrong. I am hoping to head to europe for a few months in the hopes that a change in climate will stop these in its tracks for awhile.

It is so easy to panic and start to freak out with lupus because everyone is just so different and it feels like you have no control, starting each morning crossing your fingers and hoping for the best!

I did get a brief break from this latest flare by going on holiday to the beach for a week and it was amazing what a difference that made. Now I am back into my routine with added drugs and its happening all over again.

Sorry I can't really help you with a straight answer but I can understand how it feels to be so uncertain.

Best of luck and take care

Thank you for your replies. Much has happened since I posted last.

My doc says i've taken a turn for the worse. He now has me trying methotrexate (i had side effects from plaquenil.). So far (2 days), so good. Though, I understand it will take at least 3-6 x weeks before I will see any results.

I've also stopped working, which seems to have a positive effect. I no longer need to keep my percocet close at hand.

One step at a time.

I have to agree, this is a tough one to answer. My longest lasted for over 6 months. My shortest...About a week.

I do hope you find some relief!
Hugs,
ladybrannon