ITV Emmerdale's Adam Thomas issues health update amid 'unbearable' pain struggles

Adam Thomas, the former ITV Emmerdale actor, has received an outpouring of support from fans following his recent update on his struggle with arthritis. The star disclosed his diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis in August last year and recently described his current pain as 'unbearable'.

He detailed how his entire body feels like it's 'seizing up' and that his previous discomfort has significantly worsened. In a candid Instagram post, Adam expressed: "Now I wish I never came off the methotrexate because I would take that pain to this every day of the week! ! I've just started my new medication today which takes 12 weeks to take effect and even then it might not work so am not too sure what I can do to ease the pain until then? "

The actor, who played Adam Barton on the popular soap, went on to say: "I've had my steroid injections and it literally lasted a week.... Going to check in at the hospital tomorrow to see what pain relief I can get, because I cant carry on like this! ! I couldn't even get dressed this morning on my own, couldn't drive to work, I mean I can barely walk and my wrists and fingers feel like they're broken that's no exaggeration! I wouldn't have got out of bed today if it wasn't for work."

The 36-year-old has been transparent about his health journey, and despite admitting that the past few days have been frightening and he's shed a few tears, he recognised that it can "just really get on top of you".

Adam has revealed that the purpose of his personal update is to raise awareness about the disease. He said: "I'm lucky I have a great support system and not many do so to anyone who is going through the same thing and is alone! I see you, I feel you! ! It's going to get better don't give up. If you know anyone who's suffering just give them a call and check in."

The former BBC Strictly Come Dancing contestant recently shared that the only time he hasn't been in pain over the last couple of years was when he took steroid injections during his stint on the Latin and ballroom competition last year, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Fans of the soap star flooded the comments with heartfelt well wishes. One comment read: "So proud of you and how you still remain positive and there for everyone a true inspiration to many keep your chin up you're magic" while another fan wrote "Following your story and love the awareness you are raising, stay strong. Not a sufferer myself but watch my husband fight daily for our family."

Further messages included: "I'm so proud of you Adam! Sending all my love. You absolute legend" and "I'm so sorry that you're really suffering at the moment and hope you will soon have a treatment that works for you."