Lupus Diagnosis

Hi, my name is Maria. I'm a 41 year old mother of 1 and a wife...also of 1.

I'll cut to it, I need your help. There is strong evidence that I have the same autoimmune disease that destroyed and killed my mother.

Our NHS is so overwhelmed right now that I wont see a rheumatologist until 2025 to diagnose me.

Lupus is an incurable autoimmune disease that - if not diagnosed quickly and managed - will destroy your body organs and ultimately kill you. If you knew my mother you would know I am not dramatising this in any way as her diagnosis came far too late.

There are 11 key markers of Lupus of which 4 must be present for diagnosis:

Extreme fatigue

Joint pain or swelling

Swelling in the hands, feet, or around the eyes

Fever

Headache

Sensitivity to light

Chest pain when inhaling deeply caused by inflammation in the lining of the lungs

Butterfly-shaped rash on the cheeks and nose

Raised red patches on the skin

Sores in the mouth or nose

Arthritis in two or more joints, plus swelling or tenderness

Other symptoms of lupus may include:

Seizures or other nerve problems

Hair loss

Fingers and toes turning white or blue and feeling numb when exposed to cold or stress (Raynaud’s disease)

Weight loss

Muscle pain

Skin lesions

Blood clots, which can lead to stroke or seizures

Gastrointestinal problems

Respiratory problems

Neurologic and psychiatric problems

Blood abnormalities

The ones in bold are the symptoms I have. It is also a known hereditary disease that is more common in black women ‍♀️

To add to the drama I also tested highly for potentially having Mixed Connective Tissue Disease as the next most likely issue. Which I dont want to talk about to be honest and am praying its Lupus!

The earliest a rheumatologist can see me is January 2025 and it's a fact that unless a consultant has a direct interest in Lupus, they don't know what to look for specifically in blood or the body as Lupus is know for mimicking so many other conditions.

I have a private appointment on 10th September, with a rheumatologis who specialises in autoimmune diseases, connective tissue diseases, and Lupus. The consultation is £280, follow up £200, it's money we don't have, but this is my life we are talking about. Anything you can give is greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

Maria daily updates found here