Honestly, I cannot work out if it’s my sinuses causing the fatigue or if it’s just the unhappy wolf. But this week has been challenging!
My sinuses are currently inflamed! I know talked a lot about them in last week’s blog. Still a week on, they are causing my bother. The good news, they haven’t got worse, and I’m currently avoiding any infection, which is a win-win! But I am on a strict routine of washing them out every morning, inhaling steam twice daily, and relying on decongestions.
I know sinus trouble does drain you. But I’m not sure if my sinuses are currently the blame for all my fatigue at the minute.
My Hydroxychloroquine
Back in February, I had to reduce my dose of Hydroxychloroquine by half. This was due to the eye problems I’m currently having. I have to go for some tests on my eyes to check if it’s not the medication causing it, and if it is just my illness. Until I’ve had my test done, I have to remand on the lower dose. It’s better to be safe than sorry, as your eyes are everything!
The problem is, I need the higher dose. Hydroxychloroquine helps with fatigue so much! Along with a lot of other things too. It’s such an important medication for Lupus patients!
I’ve been on the higher dose for many years. I know the higher dose help to control my illness well. Ever since I’ve dropped to the lower dose, my body just hasn’t felt strong like it has in the past. I’m getting through each day, but each day feels like a challenge. The wolf just doesn’t seem well. He’s not angry like he is in a flare. It feels like he’s sulking. There’s just an uncomfortable relationship with each other right now!
I’m going to see how I get on other the next few weeks. If I’m still struggling by the end of next month, and still haven’t had my eye appointment, I will have to speak to my Rheumatologist.
Skin Bisopy
Last year, I talked about a skin biopsy. I have a rash that keeps appearing on my hands and face. My Rheumatologist says it’s a Lupus rash, and my Dermatologist thinks it’s something else, that I can not remember the name of! But then my Rheumatologist said it’s unlikely I would have both illnesses together, as they are not normally linked. So basically, they want to take a biopsy to get answers. To be honest, it would be nice to know what it is too!
I was meant to have this biopsy in November on my face, but I ended up going on a high dose of steroids for a chest infection. Whenever I take a higher dose of steroids, the rash always clears up. So Dermatology said to give them a ring once the rash returns and they will fit me in. The rash has returned on my fingers this time. Thankfully, as I prefer them scrapping away the skin from my fingers over my face!
This is the rash currently:
These are photos of when it’s been bad on my face over the years (thankfully not like that at the minute):
On Tuesday, I am finally having the biopsy. Well, I think I am! The consultant I was under has left, so now they’ve had to put me under a new one. When I had the phone call with the Dermatology department, it sounded like I am. But then when I received the letter, it sounds more like I’m having a consultation again first, with the new consultant. So now I’m a bit confused about what’s actually happening on Tuesday! Surely I don’t need another consultation first?
Anyways, that’s if from me this week.
Hope you’ve all had a lovely week!
Until next week,
Goodbye for now.
Emma
xox
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Want to catch up on my previous blogs, head to: My Weekly Lupus Diary
