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Pain vs Fatigue

I really don't know which is worse.
I'm suffering so badly with both right now. Every joint seems to be affected and my Rituximab doesn't seem to have helped this time.
I also suffer from multiple other auto immune problems which also seem to have flared.
Any ideas what will help me?. I take strong pain meds including Tramadol SR, Pregabalin, Oramorph, and Etoricoxob.

  1. I'm so sorry to hear you are suffering with pain and fatigue. I agree, sometimes I don't know what is worse, and I know they contribute to each other and especially with our ability to cope. How long has it been since your Rituximab infusion? I find mine peaks about 3 months after the infusion. It may be time to check back with your Rheum? I have heard that sometimes they decrease the time interval between Rituximab doses.

    Rixtuximab is rarely one of the first choices for biologics. Have you tried others? How is your sleep? It is definitely a factor in a complex equation. My Rheum referred me to Sleep Medicine and they were able to help me improve my RA symptoms of pain and fatigue some. Definitely no cure, but every little bit helps.

    I Hope your flares are resolved soon, Jo

    1. I'm also sorry to hear you are going through a rough patch. I understand the frustration when you are already taking medication and doing what you can, but it seems the body doesn't want to cooperate. What has your rheumatologist suggested? I haven't been on infusions but I know even with injections the same things can occur. I agree with Jo that it would be a good idea to check back in with the rheum and see what they can offer to help bring relief. Hope you feel better soon. -Effie, team member

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