A support thread for those dealing with the ups and downs of living with chronic illnesses, pain or disability.

Cossy I've had Hydradenitis Suppurativa for about 20 - 25 years now (I'm 67). After every antibiotic the doctors tried, every other thing every suggested (roll-on deodorant/spray deodorant/none at all), and various things prescribed to wash myself with - Dettol, Hibiscrub, etc., the ONLY thing that works for me is TRIMOVATE cream. I'm losing weight (3 stone since Oct so far, but a few more stone to go). I've noticed that it flares up if I've had a lot of sugary foods in a day (I'm not diabetic). I've never known anyone with this condition.

Twiceasnice I'm sorry that you are in pain. I often have a lie down when my feet get too sore. At the moment, I'm suffering from really swollen feet and ankles which are very painful. A wee lie down is on the cards

RosiesMawagain, your daughter sounds very determined. Takes after her mum?

Grandmabatty, I have two foot shaped gel packs that can be frozen. They strap to my feet and are wonderful when my feet are throbbing. They were given to me some time ago so unfortunately I don’t know where they came from.

That's a good idea teabagwoman I'll do some research!

I’m currently collapsed in my recliner chair with my cold packs strapped to my throbbing feet. It seems to have taken me most of the morning to get some mince into the slow cooker and salads made for my lunch today and tomorrow. I still cook more or less from scratch as I have to avoid onion, garlic and tomatoes, but I’m finding that it’s taking me longer and I’m finding it more tiring. I’m interested to know how other people cope with cooking.

I have been very busy today. I have done runs to the recycling centre, got a car clean. Planted flowers snd weeded the front and back garden.
I would still be going if it was 3 years ago, but had to stop as I was getting heart palpitations. Its my body's way of telling me I had done enough. I can't keep going like I used too.
I am sleepy now, but look forward to a shower and the salad I have prepared. Don't feel like cooking.

I don’t know if this will help anyone else but thought I’d put it here in case. I have to avoid bending over but bending at the knees causes protests from them. This has made finding bits that have got to the back of my undercounter fridge rather a problem. I’ve repurposed some shallow food storage boxes as trays so now I can just pull out a tray to see what’s at the back. I’ve also found a walking stool which brings me down to the right height and folds up and sits in the corner when not in use.