Hi

I think how you are feeling is entirely normal! Absolutely. I'm sure even more feelings will follow including sadness and anger, etc.

There is a lot of information on the main site, and feel free to ask as many questions as you want to as you learn more about your lupus and how it affects you, and what treatment(s) they will be putting you on. It's hard to give generic advice on lupus because it can affect individuals in so many different ways, but two of the most common symptoms are joint pain and fatigue which affect nearly everybody. Lupus can affect almost any body organ, hence why it has been referred to as the disease with 1,000 faces!

Had you been ill at all before your hospitalization or was it all a complete surprise and came on very quickly? I hope you find yourself very soon on the path to feeling better by getting on the right medications for your diagnosed conditions. And lastly, a hearty welcome to the site!

Hi Donut,
I am sorry that you are having problems right now but it is good to know what you are dealing with I think. Lupus is different for everyone, that is what makes it hard to dx. There are different kinds of lupus also. Some people have very little trouble with their lupus while others have a daily struggle just to get out of bed everyday. I have found some common factors like: fatigue that never seems to leave you, joint pain, the low grade fevers, sweats seem to be pretty common, and of course the flu like symptoms. I know what a shock it is to get this news as there is not warning as to lupus. It is not like a cold. A sniffle here and there maybe a cough, funny feeling throat, so you know you are getting the cold real soon. Lupus has it's signs but they are so much like other diseases and problems that no one can get you ready for the news, it just comes. I hope you take the time to adjust to the news and find what helps you the most as the days pass. I wish you the best and that you feel better soon. Please feel free to come and chat with us about anything on your mind at the time.

Hi Donut,
I am reallay sorry for your diagnosis, but glad that altleast now you can get the right treatment.

I really feel for you as I became sick after having my son who is 20 mths now and it is arelly tough. I don't quite know how I got through those earlier minths to be honest but you just do don't you, you have to!!
I would definately agree with what others have said about trying to structure a routine with your little one that allows you to try and rest even if its not sleep but just putting your feet up and relaxing. Itst not easy atall to allow ourselves as mums to do this, I have only just allowed myself a bit of this over the last few months as my body demands it! It really is important though if you are sick to not try and carry on and on as it will take its toll.

I really hope things get sorted out for you.

Have you been put on any medication for the lupus at the moment and have you seen a rheumatologist?

Good luck with everything

Take Care

Cassie

Hello Donna
I'm pleased to meet you but very sorry about your diagnosis which must have been very shocking indeed. It's not surprising you are low what with one thing and another especially looking after a baby which is very demanding of well mothers. There's a whole range of very normal emotions in reaction to diagnosis, fear, anger and intense anxiety are common. Don't hesitate to let your doctors know how you are feeling - many of us take anti depressants. In fact it is reckoned that depression and anxiety can be disease symptoms as well as reactive. Some doctors believe that people with lupus often have a chemical problem to so with serotonin and the SSRI group of anti depressants can be particularly helpful. You may also have post natal hormonal influences rearing their ugly heads

You might have to consider whether you can or should continue to breastfeed depending what meds you are put on and bearing in mind the importance of rest - you have done very well for 5 months already given him the best possible start but time to look after yourself now.

This is the address of LupusUK
http://www.lupusuk.com/

We also have a new member, Mrs Wolf, who is Chair of the Herts and Beds LupusUK Group
This the link to her Profile where you can get her contact details.
http://www.thelupussite.com/forum/member.php?u=41879

I am glad you found your way here and hope you will find it very useful for information and above all emotional support. Lupus is usually a very lonely business and knowing others who understand and having a place you can share your problems makes all the difference.

There's no doubt in my mind that this is the best support forum there is!

Let us know how you get on please and Good Luck
:hug:
Clare