OFF MEDS

[jennyall12]

Going off meds ... So I was taken off plaqunil six months ago due to my white blood cells being low and they arent sure if its the lupus itself or the meds. So now I have to go to a hematologist. I am on NOTHING for Lupus now. Has anyone gone off meds and been ok?? How often do you get labs done ..

[Author_ink]

My lupus meds were giving me severe diarrhea. I stop taking it to give my body a break. I havent had any problems yet. Waiting on dr to perscribe something else

[Author_ink]

My hands have been so sore. Cant open jars or packages. Have to use scissors to open everything. Been having severe obdomen pain. Has anyone experience these symptoms? When I sit down its so painful to stand up.

[AimeeA in reply to Author_ink]

Severe abdominal pain means you need to see a doctor ASAP.

There are other serious medical conditions unrelated to lupus that could cause that.. appendicitis, IBD, gall bladder or kidney stones etc. see your doctor and don't assume it is lupus.

[Author_ink in reply to AimeeA]

Its nothing i cant handle. Im strong

[Silvergilt in reply to Author_ink]

With all due respect, it's not about keeping a stiff upper lip or being strong-willed. Severe pain isn't something that should be ignored. It isn't a personal test of your will. Please go have it checked out.

Sounds as if you may be flaring. When my meds stopped working and I was waiting for the ok for a new scrip my hands were so swollen I couldn't use my hands hardly at all. Had to get the nurse to take the cap off the injection for me!

I wish you answers and ease.

[AimeeA]

Yes I went off meds and have been doing well for 10 years without them but I first learned what my lupus triggers were and avoid those things carefully. I avoid the sun like the plague and manage stress since that triggers a flare. If I get any joint pain I'll take an anti inflammatory like Mobic but only for short spells when needed.

Lupus varies a lot from person to person so follow your doctor's advice on meds. Some can manage it well without drugs via lifestyle changes that avoid triggers, but for some serious issues you do need them.

I get labs every 6 months for some, every year for the full range of tests.

[Author_ink in reply to AimeeA]

I stay on top of my blood work.