low grade temps

So - question is....do others experience the ongoing low grade temp?  I pay more attention to it when I feel so crummy - but I guess it's possible I cycle like that even when I'm feeling well.  Just don't want to head into a full throttle flare......

Thanks

Golitho, I did do some research on the subject and it does appear that low grade fevers are not uncommon with RA, but anything over 100.4 should be reported to the doctor in case of infection, like you said.

Momto3 - My husband notices if my face starts turning red when I'm too active or overdoing it and reminds me that I better take it easy now or pay later.   I've learned to heed the warning.

Thanks, everyone, for your input.

Hi momto3 - I know what you're talking about - I did it too, for a looong time.  Gradually, I learned the old "oxygen mask" lesson.  You know - when the stewardess is explaining how to use the oxygen mask if need be on an airplane.  The instructions are to get your own on before attempting to assist a child or another person, because if you don't, you'll likely run out of air and be unable to help another and require someone to come to your aid.

My kids are grown, so it's easier to do now - but I think of my energy stores like a bank account.  I try to conserve what I can and spend wisely, so I've learned to say no to activities and events and housecleaning etc., that were short on "funds".  Sometimes this is depressing, inconvenient, and/or impossible to control,  so I use a "credit card" when I have to, and do whatever anyway, but I do it knowing what a very high interest rate I'm paying, and start plotting right away about how to get it "paid off" asap. (naps, meds, extra help from others, curtailing activity, etc.)  The goal is to have enough for everyday needs, with extra to spend on the occasional FUN stuff!

My hat is off to everyone dealing with children and family life with a chronic illness and pain, because it requires so much mental and physical energy.  There are lots of rewards - but it's just plain hard.

Sorry - I think I may have come off as preachy here - which is not my intention.  I just want to encourage you to consider not "doing something" all the time, as choosing to "do" something very positive for yourself and your body, and ultimately, your family.  Like I said - I know exactly what you're talking about as I was like that, too, and I think oftentimes we do it because it distracts us from the pain and fatigue!?

And it seems to work for awhile.....but eventually, the coffers are empty.

I'm going to shut up now.   But the fluorescent lights?  That's another whole topic!

It was more difficult when my children were younger, but my boys are now grown, well almost 18 and 19 and my daughter is so understanding...she will say you have RA mom it is okay. She is going on 15.

I have gotten more lax on my house cleaning and there are times I do the bare minimum, and my husband is great about laundry etc when I have to work.

Yes, I have worked several evenings/nights and my co-workers have commented on my face.  Last night on my way out, I checked my face in the bathroom and I had what looked like the butterfly rash, across my cheeks and nose.  I am hoping it is just the meds! But the next day I feel horrid!

Golitho...so nice to *see* you and I love the word *bits*

I'm with you Golitho - I don't want to moderate my energy either, just the activity that leaves me bankrupt, with none to spare, ha-ha .  I also love your reference to "your bit's" hurting.  We do get used to a lot, don't we?  Also appreciate the rolling pin tip - sometimes the simplest things make enormous differences.

I have a diagnosis of UCTD with a suspicion towards RA with a mildly elevated Rh factor and elevated inflammatory markers, along with the usual suspects for symptoms.  I also have sun sensitivity that extends to fluorescent lights in buildings like big box stores, offices, etc.  Exposure over time can bring on a flare.  I don't know if that is associated with RA as well as lupus or not. 

Momto3 - I would assume your rheumy would test you for lupus if the rash is persistant and malar like......though testing doesn't always give immediate answers either.  Does the sun bother you, too?  So glad you're kids are older and helpful.  My husband will do laundry and asundry other chores if need be - I'm grateful every day for that, and for every day he doesn't need to do any of it!