Yesterday I met with my rheumatologist to discuss results of bloodwork that she had ordered because she thought I might have Sjogren's Syndrome. I've been having severe dry eyes and frequent dry mouth recently. About 9 months ago I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and have just come to the realization that I have to take care of myself and not overdo activities to keep from having really rotten days. I have always gone full speed ahead. I will keep on doing what I am doing until I am ready to drop ignoring signs of fatigue or pain. The thought that I was going to have to schedule in a new ailment before I had figured out how to manage the fibro left me quite anxious Wednesday night. Thursday morning I awoke anxious. By the time my doctor came in to talk to me I already had tears in my eyes. The news didn't stop with Sjogren's however, she thinks I may have lupus. Yeah... definitely not good news.
So, today I began an even more complicated medicine plan than I already had.
Eleven pills with breakfast: Lipitor, multivitamin, baby aspirin, Celebrex, Celexa, Welbutrin, Lotensin, Norvasc, Strattera, Plaquinil, and Prednisone. There are Restasis drops for my eyes. A vitamin E capsule should be dissolved in water and swished in my mouth 3 times. Tooth care includes the usual brushing and flossing, then a fluoride treatment.
Another 3 swishes of Vitamin E mid-afternoon.
Use Restasis drops again in the early evening.
At bedtime, Lyrica and Plaquinil. And of course the dental plan ... brushing and flossing, vitamin E swishing, and fluoride treatment.
As needed there is Biotene Oral Balance and sugar free gum to combat cotton mouth and preservative free eye drops for my eyes.
I'm tired just thinking about it. Kind of cuts down on spontaneity.
Somehow each day I need to practice relaxation techniques and ride the exercise bike, and strive for self-actualization. So what am I doing tonight? Bitching and procrastinating.
Next week I have 3 medical tests scheduled: echocardiogram, pulmonary function, and barium swallow.
I'm not going to become an invalid, so I've got to get this fuzzy mess sorted into a plan soon.
