caret icon Back to all discussions

Steroids and tramodol

Just been diognoised with RA and doctors but me on steroids prenesonol and tramodol I’m very overwhelmed with it all I havint slept properly for 5 days and I’m very tearful , iv got my first appointment with Rhuemotology in June to see what RA it is and what stage and what medication I will have has anyone else felt all this

  1. Hello.

    I'm a relatively newly diagnosed patient (about 1 year). I find the steroids help tremendously in the short term. I always make sure to take them first thing in the morning to minimize the effect on sleep. But yes, inability to sleep has been one of my major frustrations (due to discomfort, not anxiety). It's gotten better as I have found a med regimen that is working fairly well. There are lots of medication options out there, but it might take some time to find the right one for you. My mood hasn't been affected too much, except when in an acute flare up (which hasn't happened in 6 months now).

    This site has lots of good information and scientific articles, as well as people who know what it is you're going through. I think it's fair to say (speaking for myself only) that I'm better than I was at the beginning, but I wouldn't say I'm "well." I have had to adjust some things, and have realistic expectations of what my new reality is. I'm lucky to have a supportive family, an understanding job (healthcare), and good insurance. So in that sense, I'm grateful.

    Hang in there. Best wishes.

    1. Hi . Your feelings of being overwhelmed are certainly understandable, but it is good that you have sought out a place you can get information and support. As noted by , there are a lot of different treatment options and this article from our editorial team gives an overview: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment. Hopefully, as you prepare for your rheumatologist appoint this can be helpful. In addition, this article from our contributor Kelly (full disclosure - I'm her husband) discusses questions for the rheumatologist: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/questions-for-the-doctor. Also, I'm sure it may seem that your appointment in June is a ways off. Some community members have had success getting appointments moved up by asking the office if they can be put on a cancellation list. Please feel free to keep us posted on how you are doing and to ask additional questions - people here understand and this community is here for you. Best, Richard (Team Member)

      1. I can only speak for myself, but I find sleep impossible on Tramadol. Aside from an insatiable all over itch they make my head totally wired. Perhaps speak with your dr about an alternative painkiller?

        Please read our rules before posting.