Lupus Support Group

for another month...This is normal right? I've seen some people are on low dose steroids...Is this working for you and how long have you had to do this? What other options do we have? I have been on and off Prednisone for 6 weeks and have gained 14lbs. I 'm done with the whole weight gain issue..Lucky for me I am 5'10" to handle it.

Also, I knew this diagnosis was going to occur 2-3 years ago, it was just a matter of time before everything lined up. Well, I got the diagnosis 2 months ago and I am having the worst time dealing with it. I feel like it controls who I am, what I am, where I am, and what I do...It's not who I am, and I can't accept it. It's always on my mined. It obviously goes away when I'm feeling better, but that is rare lately. Any tips to get me back?

I have talked to you alot on this issue and you are probably sick of listening to me by now haha. Like you said it's something you probably have been suffering with for years now but they have only been able to get it confirmed and treated as of lately. You have been a strong Fibro sufferer for so long and I know you can do this and learn to accept it as well. The good thing is that you are already noticing some positive effects from your treatment. Stay focused, positive and the strong Lynette that I know and love. This disease does not define who you are. Sometimes you just need some reassurance, I know from time to time I do. Hang in there and take everything one day at a time. This is all still new and all in all you are coping very well. It's a life changing scary thing for some but it's also what you make of it. Do what you can to make the best of things. I'm always here for you my friend. Big hugs, Stacey

When I was first diagnosed with Lupus it took a long, long time for me to accept this and still after 17 years at times I still have a hard time accepting this but have learned to handle it the best I can. I am on a low dose of Prednisone.....down to 3mgs. for a few months than I will alternate each day 2 to 3 mgs......I go down very slowly and need to get off as I have been diagnosed with osteopenia due to the Prednisone. During a flare I do take a boost anywhere from 30 to 40 mgs. for three days and that usually helps me through the flare. At one time I was on 60mgs. for about a year and gained a lot of weight but since coming down off the Prednisone I lost the weight that I gained. I just try to keep a positive outlook on my life as it sure helps me through the roughest times.

Eva

Thanks Ladies. I am sure trying to be positive and take one day at a time. I'm just in a rutt this week. I'm sure has to do with still recovering from camping/boating and overdoing it. I'm super sensitive emotionally right now. I keep nipping at my husband. I needed the reinforcement for sure. Thanks.

Steroids can do that to ya. Some people can turn into a royal you know what so he's lucky your just nipping lol. If they are helping then that's a good thing sometimes the benefits of these yucky drugs outweigh the negative side effects and other times they don't. Everyones different, I hope it works out for you I really do. Okay pom poms down now. I promise lol. Love and Hugs, Stacey

I totally understand what you are experiencing. I don't like prednisone cycles but when I am flaring, I have to do what I have to do. I gained about forty pounds over five years which stinks but prednisone and pain meds can do that unfortunately. I am finally losing weight now (fingers crossed). As much as I hate the prednisone, when they help alleviate the inflammation and pain, I feel energized and it makes it worth it. You are not alone by any means. Keep healthy snacks on hand and lots of water.

Leslie

I read your info, and interesting how they just cannot put the dx on individuals. I also struggled for many years until, I was finally diagnosed with "SLE" then the trial and error of meds. Right now I am on the same meds, however I experienced this weight loss about 45lbs with these flares...