Plaquenil or Placebo?

[sassygal]

Maria,

I am so in awe of your athletic abilities. Doctors always say "keep moving" and I think that is so true with conditions like Sjogren's. Finding that perfect balance is the trick...when to rest and when to push yourself.

Just wanted to remind you that Plaquenil makes you you more sun-sensitive and prone to burn. Make sure you protect yourself. Also, one of the side effects is that it will lower your blood sugar so you may need to increase calories to burn before a strenuous work out. Sun exposure wipes me out. The decrease in blood glucose was actually good for me since I am diabetic... didn't need to take metformin while I was on Plaquenil!

[wildforwater]

Thanks again, Gail.    Don?t think I'll be able to race again.  The training is much too hard on my body, but I'm happy that I can get out there and ride when my Sjogren's is cooperating.

I totally agree that keeping moving is important with Sjogren's, as well as RA, Lupus and other autoimmune diseases.  I know it's not easy with all the fatigue, weakness, aches and pain, but the benefits of exercise are worth it for both your physical and mental wellbeing.  Even if it's simply walking or taking a yoga class.  The stronger you are, the less energy you expend to do the things you love or need to do.  If only I could get that balance thing mastered!  As the day goes on, I'm feeling more and more wiped out. 

And not to worry, my Rheumy warned me about the effects of the sun in general so I'm being careful. I've burned and broken out in rashes in the past.  And I eat constantly when riding?before, during and after, but I will make sure I up my calories a bit. Did not know Plaquenil lowers your blood sugar.  Thanks for the warnings.

Hugs,
Maria