Hi everyone,
Just wondering if anyone has experienced what is happening with me. I have had SLE for 15+ years. I am on plaquenil, methotrexate and prednisone. The last month my symptoms have gotten worse - my joint pain has increased significantly but more frustrating than that is the fact that the muscles in my arms and legs are getting weaker to the point where it is preventing me from doing things (and I don't usually let anything get me down). I had to cancel an appt. with the pulmonologist tomorrow because I had to go by myself and the drive is over an hour and I knew that my leg would not hold out that long to press on the gas pedal. My PCP checked my CPK level, my TSH and aldolase. All were within normal limits. SHe told me to call the Rheumie which I did and the nurse called back and said it is just a flare - increase the prednisone (which I have been on for 2 years). I have an appt. on the 20th.

This is just different than any flare I have ever experienced. Has anyone else had this muscle problem - this morning I could not even get my foot straight for almost an hour, I had to walk on the outside of my foot.

Sorry this is so long - thank you for any insight. Bern: wave: