Finally, I’m happy to report that the wait is over. At least for the results of biopsy of my autoimmune hives to rule out urticarial vasculitis, a scary complication of Lupus. Still don’t know about the blood test yet. If the tests were positive, I would have to begin serious doses of steroids and immunosuppresants to keep the inflamed blood vessels from reaching my vital organs. Scary! **
Body
One word to describe my Lupus body today: Relief
Which habits and rituals did I practice to soothe my Lupus body?
- Slept well
- Ate a clean diet
- Breathed fresh air
- Stayed hydrated
- Protected delicate skin
More details about my physical symptoms:
The dermatologist removed my biopsy stitches today (read about the back story here), and it was such a relief to finally get them out. I also received the results of the biopsy. Hubby came along to comfort me in case the news was bad. I’m happy to say that I DO NOT have vasculitis. Thank God! But we’re in the proverbial good news-bad news scenario. They ruled out the scary diagnosis of vasculitis—the good news. They have no idea why I have such an intense case of autoimmune hives again—the bad news. The dermatopathology report from UCSF reads: negative direct immunofluorescence (meaning no vasculitis—yay); and perivascular dermatitis with edema and telangiectaisa and dermatisis consistent with urticaria (meaning I have hives with bruising).
Mind
One word to describe my Lupus mind today: Woot!
Which habits and rituals did I practice to strengthen my Lupus mind?
- Connected with my doctor
- Focused on the positive
More details and thoughts about how I’m feeling emotionally today:
After receiving the good news last week that my original positive tests for Lyme disease were “false positive,” I’m feeling even more relief about not having vasculitis. I was so afraid of that diagnosis, even more than having Lyme disease for some reason. They’re both very bad disease, but I know that the Lyme disease can be cured; the vasculitis cannot. It’s so good to have something positive to focus on in this Lupus life. Whew! I’ll take it!
Spirit
One word to describe my spirit today: Renewed
Which habits and rituals did I practice to nurture my Lupus spirit?
- Enjoyed sacred space
- Meditated, prayed, visualized
Thoughts about my spiritual connection and spiritual lessons learned today:
These past two weeks of waiting for blood test and biopsy results and having to deal with the physical itchiness and pain have been very difficult on my Lupus spirit. I’m proud, though, that I didn’t give up trying to maintain my spiritual connection to find a bit of peace and hope. I have to remember even during the difficult times, especially during the difficult times, that it is a source of renewal for me.
Meals
Today my meals were:
- Breakfast: Apple, banana Paleo muffin
- Lunch: Chicken, broccoli, pasta salad
- Dinner: Grilled chicken legs, sweet potatoes, green beans
- Snacks: Apple
Thanks
At least one thing that I’m grateful for today:
- Negative test for urticarial vasculitis
**(This post is based on the format of the Lupus Diary that I developed for keeping track of how Lupus affects my body, mind, and spirit, I check-in here once a week to let you know about the more interesting days of my Lupus journey. To learn more about the Lupus Diary, how I developed it, and why I use it, click here.)
