Morhighan wrote:So my doctor thinks that I have Lupus--which sucks, but I'd love to agree. My lab tests, however, say I'm healthy as I can get--which is obviously not true, since it appears that my immune system is attacking my entire body because it thinks it's an intruder.
It was after a few "Super Healthy" test results that my doctor got concerned. Upon reviewing my symptoms, he got visibly upset, and said that he would like to treat me for Lupus Cerebritis as a precaution. Treatment apparently involves steroids, which are supposed to make my swelling go down. I've been pretty optimistic. That is, until I did more research into Cerebritis.
As it turns out, Cerebritis is really difficult to diagnose. Lupus is considered to be the "great imitator" and is hard to distinguish from other illnesses, and Lupus Cerebritis is no exception. In basic terms, Cerebritis is a brain infection that can lead to the formation of abscesses--you know, a collection of pus. In my brain. Which can cause necrosis. So my brain might actually rot.
I can now understand why my doctor was upset, because I sure am upset just reading about it. While some effects can be short-lived, Cerebritis can also cause permanent neurological damage and even death.
Lupus has no cure. This is something I've accepted. Lupus Cerebritis can be managed and treated by suppressing autoimmune activity. This is also something I've been able to accept.
Along with the "run-of-the-mill" Lupus symptoms, we noticed that I have had very strong issues with memory loss, severe depression and anxiety, and headaches. Those are all mild symptoms of Cerebritis. I also have vision problems, dizziness, and hallucinations, which are the "medium" point symptoms.
However, now that my left arm and hand have stopped working on several occasions, I'm pretty worried. "Cerebellar Ataxia" is the failure of muscle coordination, usually on one side of the body. It, along with nerve issues, which I clearly have, are considered to be severe symptoms.
I am now making sure that I am monitored closely as much as possible, because at this rate, judging by my symptoms, I could have a seizure or a stroke at any moment. And that's pretty scary.
I'm going to try to deal with it calmly, but my the earliest I can see my doctor is on February 6, and we've been trying to start my steroid treatment since November. I really hope there aren't any other delays, because I'm pretty scared.
My prayers are with you. I know you've dealt with a lot these last months and I really hope everything is okay. Please take it easy as well. It's really good that you're trying to stay in a positive light through tough times as well. It's very inspiring. Anyway, please take care of yourself.