Fighting off a flare

[MissyLouWho?]

I've been in a flare for about 8-9 days now.  Makes me realize just how 'good' I felt and I guess I took it for granted. 

I have a 4 day commitment beginning Wednesday that I NEED to be my normal me for.  NOT the flaring me.  I'm face painting for our town's carnival for 4 days straight.  I enlisted the help of my nieces because they are really good and will do the painting MY way.  I'm know I won't be able to get through 4 days by myself and that's when I'm NOT flaring.  My older niece used to do parties and events with me so she can run it without me if need be, but I want to be there to make the money.  I really need it bad enough to overextend myself and crash later. 

Do you have any tips on shortening the length and severity of a flare?  I don't care if it hits AFTER the carnival, but I want it to go away now.

My ophthalmologist gave me steroid eye drops Wednesday because she said my eyes look like I had dried them with a qtip .  She said a flare can be shortened if I take the steroid drops as soon as I feel the flare starting.  So I was wondering of anyone knew of any other ways to shorten a flare?

[lori]

if ther is a way to prevent or shorten a flare im not in on it but i would think taht added stress would only make  matters worse...

getting plenty sleep is crucial for all of us- and proper nutrtion... vitamins etc.

praying your carnival days will not wipe you out.

lori

[artistangie]

I'm new at this but I just want you to know Im thinking of you and pray you make it though this with minimal discomfort.

[iraisin]

Aleve, multi-vitamins with energy enhancement, coffee, Aleve, go to bed as early as you can, go to a massuse college as frequently as you can, Aleve.

Also, I know of some establishments here that offer massages (salon type places) and the people there will do massages for free for training purposes.

soak your feet and hands in cool water during your work time. It will keep you cool and alert. So plan that for your breaks. Also, while you're painting, keep a tub of cool water and a washcloth nearby to drap the cool rag on the back of your neck.

Bring your toothbrush and paste, this helps with feeling fresh and alert.

Proud of you. Fight the good fight friend. Make some money and try and enjoy sharing your gift.

Let us know how it goes. I wish you well.

[sass]

i downloaded a subliminal mp3 from Amazon that helps you sleep and relaxes you...I am not normally one to go for something like that, but I be durned....it worked...There are several pages you can choose from.  Relaxation in key to good health.   ~sass~

[gurs]

Boy, I hear ya!!! when those flares hit, the normal SS symptoms dont seem as bad. I know anytime I push myself, I get a huge flare. I then
do nothing but try to stay in bed, take more medrol 4 mg tabs, and motrin/tylenol every few hours. Drink more fluids, etc...just resting alot
with no stress etc. That's it.

hope you feel better soon!

gurs

[Scottietottie]

Hi 

I just hope you are face painting in the shade! I know how tiring it can be. I used to do it at festivals and needed my husband to be 'bouncer' and turn people away if necessary just to get a break!

I don't know how to make a flare subside but I just hope yours does.

Take care - Scottie 

[MissyLouWho?]

Thank you sooooooo much for all the suggestions and well wishes.  I've been sleeping a lot and I have found I've needed ibuprofen very often.  I've also found that my 9 year old daughter is an EXCELLENT masseuse!  Not hungry much, but trying to eat healthy when I do.  Just too tired to chew.  That's one way I know I'm in a flare . 

I am painting in the building  .  It was one of my requirements.  My nieces keep reassuring me that it will be fine and they have it all under control.  Goodness I am so proud of them!  I really like that they want to learn the business because it's something they can do together for good money while in college and not have to work full time for minimum wage.  They will have more time to study and not feel overwhelmed trying to balance a full time work schedule and full time school. 

I think it might be letting up already.  I didn't have a hard time getting up this morning and my eyeballs were not glued shut.  I also notice I'm not Attila the Hun anymore, either!  Spent the last few days in bed or on the couch.  Gonna take it easy the rest of the time before the carnival. 

Thanks guys!  I'm so thankful I have you all to help me like you always do!  ***HUGS***