Fifth Disease Advice, please.

[Beca]

Okay, my dd5 got Fifth Disease, and although she usually doesn't like to share, she was kind enough to share this with all of us.

I first started having symptoms on Chrismas Eve, and am frustrated because I simply do not feel better. My headache and intestinal "issues" are getting better...but, the joint pain is about to drive me CRAZY!!! My fingers are so swollen and stiff (especially in the morning) that I can barely get my wedding ring on. My knees hurt, and my butt muscles constantly ache like I've done a few too many squats.

The websites say this "arthritis" can last a few weeks to a few months to a few years!!! Yikes!!!!

Can anyone who has had the associated arthitis tell me their experiences?

TIA!!!

 

[WonderfulDreamer2]

Read about it....never had it. I know that was of no help at all. Hope you find the infor you need

 

[aes74]

When I taught school this would fly through my class...

I have never heard of it lasting months. I think it's a good week or two at most. Any longer, and I would see a doctor.

 

[frndofpooh]

It is not uncommon for the joint aches to last for 3-4 weeks in an adult. Kids generally fly through this one, but for lots of adults it can linger. Keep up with the anti-inflammatories like Motrin and take it easy if you can (HAAA - you're a mom - good luck with that one, I know!).

When I had Fifths a couple of years ago the joint pain took about a month to go away completely. Hope you feel better soon

 

[Chris2597]

Okay, my dd5 got Fifth Disease, and although she usually doesn't like to share, she was kind enough to share this with all of us.

I first started having symptoms on Chrismas Eve, and am frustrated because I simply do not feel better. My headache and intestinal "issues" are getting better...but, the joint pain is about to drive me CRAZY!!! My fingers are so swollen and stiff (especially in the morning) that I can barely get my wedding ring on. My knees hurt, and my butt muscles constantly ache like I've done a few too many squats.

The websites say this "arthritis" can last a few weeks to a few months to a few years!!! Yikes!!!!

Can anyone who has had the associated arthitis tell me their experiences?

TIA!!!

I feel so sorry for you. I caught it from my kids several yrs ago. The kids had a rash, fever and didnt feel good for a few days. The dr told me it was Fifth's....a childhood illness, nothing to worry about...and that they were actually contagious before they showed any signs of illness....He never mentioned that I could catch it. A week or so later I could barely walk I hurt so bad. The joints in my legs, ankles, wrists and elbows were so painful....I didnt realize it was the adult version of Fifths until I went to work that day. I work at a school and I saw a mom coming into school, moving very slowly....just like me....I said to her...you dont look like you feel good...she said "Oh I have Fifths "(I remembered her child had been out of school the week before with it)...she said she had been to her dr and was told that the severe pain is the adult version of Fifths. It took me almost 2 weeks to get over it....Definetly alot harder on adults.
The dr also told me anyone with Fifths should stay clear of pregnant woman especially in their last trimester as the illness can cause stillbirths.
I hope you feel better soon.

 

[aes74]

The only positive, as I understand it, as that once you have had it, you can't have it again. I believe it's in the chicken pox family.

 

[Beca]

Thanks for the advice!!!! It really does help to not feel so alone in this pain. I hurt so badly last night it was really difficult to get any sleep. I am into my second week of this....I just hope I am not one of the unlucky ones who gets this pain for months or years. Seriously, I have a new understanding for people who live with arthritis...I don't know how they do it!!!!

Thanks again for all the well wishes!!!

aes74....you dd's are BEAUTIFUL!!!!

 

[Keli]

I've never had this and after reading this post I will be avoiding any children with it like the plague!