Hi Rachel
Welcome to the Forum
Its lovely to meet you 
First of all, dont feel awkward posting around here
This place isnt only for those with Lupus but its also an extremely valuable resource to those, like yourself, who suspect Lupus or who have a range of, so far, unexplained symptoms and need some support or advice.
I cant say if you have Lupus or not but Im very glad that you have a Rheumatology referral coming up. Of course nobody wants to be diagnosed with a chronic, long term illness like Lupus but the most important thing to remember that putting your head in the sand wont make one NOT have Lupus - but it can delay vital treatment that can get things back to an even keel for you if you do have Lupus. Hope that makes sense! I've only just woken up and saw your post.
I had a quick look at your symptom list and I will reply on that post shortly. You sure have had a difficult health history :hugbetter: :sad:
Anyway I had best go and get my wake-up coffee so that I can start the day properly!
Even if you get a diagnosis of Lupus it doesnt have to mean that your life-long dream comes to an end completely. Yes there are lifestyle adjustments to be made but, over time, these just become common sense decisions. The right treatment is the key to managing many aspects of this disease and that can take a while to sort out.
I have Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Hypothyroidism and Hypertension by the way and I work as a Director of a Drug Rehabilitation Project. Its not easy at times but I still manage it
Just a tip by the way. If you dont have things like life assurance sorted out its a good idea to do this before you get any formal diagnosis. Its very difficult, if not impossible, to get insurance companies to take on someone with a Lupus diagnosis
Better go get that coffee....!
Take care for now
Joan:rose:
Welcome to the Forum
First of all, dont feel awkward posting around here
I cant say if you have Lupus or not but Im very glad that you have a Rheumatology referral coming up. Of course nobody wants to be diagnosed with a chronic, long term illness like Lupus but the most important thing to remember that putting your head in the sand wont make one NOT have Lupus - but it can delay vital treatment that can get things back to an even keel for you if you do have Lupus. Hope that makes sense! I've only just woken up and saw your post.
I had a quick look at your symptom list and I will reply on that post shortly. You sure have had a difficult health history :hugbetter: :sad:
Anyway I had best go and get my wake-up coffee so that I can start the day properly!
Even if you get a diagnosis of Lupus it doesnt have to mean that your life-long dream comes to an end completely. Yes there are lifestyle adjustments to be made but, over time, these just become common sense decisions. The right treatment is the key to managing many aspects of this disease and that can take a while to sort out.
I have Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Hypothyroidism and Hypertension by the way and I work as a Director of a Drug Rehabilitation Project. Its not easy at times but I still manage it
Just a tip by the way. If you dont have things like life assurance sorted out its a good idea to do this before you get any formal diagnosis. Its very difficult, if not impossible, to get insurance companies to take on someone with a Lupus diagnosis
Better go get that coffee....!
Take care for now
Joan:rose: