Scared

[mscarmex]

[[size=7][size=3]Hi I just joined. I am not sure if I have Lupus or not, I go to a dermatologist this coming Thursday. But I have been reading some of the messages. I have the butterfly form of rashes on my face, rash on my forehead, and some sore spots in my ears that scab up and then when I scratch them they bleed.
My face itches constantly, burns, and plan old hurts. When a new place appears it feels like I am stabbing myself with a hot needle.
As far as seizures, I am an epileptic. However, I had brain surgery on May 9, 1994 and have been seizure free since then but seems to be having a lot of side effects such as asthma, allergies,horrible migrains that last up to 7 days.
Does this sound like Lupus to any of you?
I would like to hear (or read style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/biggrin.gif ) your opinions.
Thanks and god bless
mscarmex

[rriffee@yahoo.com]

hi mscarmex: welcome to this site. what you describe could be lupus. i have the places on my face that you describe on your ears. they bleed then scab and then they become scaley. i know how difficult this is and hopefully they will get to the bottom of this when you go to dermatologist appt. i have sle and now possibly discoid lupus we will soon find out for sure. take care and hope to see you in the chat room sometime soon take care Mary Jane

[helloos]

Hi there and welcome to the site.

I think that it is a good thing that you are going to the dermo who will be able to tell you if it is the butterfly rash and further testing and results. Make sure that you have a complete list of your symptoms too even if you think not related.

Good luck with your appointmnet. Let us know how you make out.

[alobreto]

Hi, mscarmex! style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif
And welcome to the forum! style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif

I don't know how much you've read about lupus, but it is known as 'the great imitator' because it has so many symptoms that could be from some other ailment. It can be difficult to diagnose even for a specialist rheumatologist.

When skin is involved, it can often be diagnosed more quickly by having a skin biopsy done by your dermatologist. This can provide a definitive diagnosis as soon as the test is completed and results arrive at your specialist's office.

I agree that it's great that you are pursuing this and not giving up! It can be easy to do when the road to diagnosis can seem so long. When skin problems involve very visible areas like the face and ears it can be very distressing in addition to being quite uncomfortable.

I wish you well as you move forward!
Angela style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/flowers.gif