Blegh. Went to the doctor today.

Blegh.  Went to the doctor today.  Because I know nothing I didn't get a referral to a specialist.  I think I thought he was allowed to experiment on me, then decide he couldn't fix me before giving me a referral.  I have been told repeatedly that I am wrong, so I will call them by next week.  I really feel like I need to do my own research right now.

So he came in and asked how long I'd had my "rash" and I told him that I was diagnosed with Psoriasis like, 15 years ago.  He said that often arthritis comes with that (psoriatic arthritis), so I guess he thinks that's what I have.  They took 3 vials of my blood, but as far as I know they only tested it for infection.  No x-rays or anything like that were done.  I did find out that my blood pressure is good and that I weigh 120 lbs.  I would be happier if I was back at 110 (and it might be easier on my joints from what I've read), but the doc said nothing about that.  (Before any of you jump on me for saying that's a low weight - please remember that I am not even technically adult sized.)

Anyway, they gave me a steroid shot in the ass called Celestone.  He said it would help with the inflammation in my skin and joints.  The shot hurt, but not terribly (I am no wimp), but I almost passed out shortly after receiving it.  Meds affect me a little more than they do the average person, I think.  So they gave me a Dum-Dum sucker and let me sit until I felt better.  It was a pretty good sucker.  Since I felt all jeebly I asked Shaun to come and get me.  I really didn't want to drive at the point.

We had lunch and that was ok.  But off and on all afternoon I have felt as though I am being pinched in random places, I've had pain in other joints that weren't bothering me before, I've had crying spells, and my lower back and thighs are now killing me - in addition to my bones and skin hurting.  🙁  All in all, this is worse and I hope it gets better.

I asked what the side effects of the shot would be and the nurse said my face might flush for a day.  I asked how long the shot would last and they didn't know.  No one knows anything, not even me.  Like I said - I have research to do.  I'm not super thrilled with how the day went, but I'm probably not the best patient, as I don't have experience with doctors.  I didn't know that it was appropriate to ask for a referral - and especially not on the first visit.  Popular consensus seems to be that I need to see a Rheumatologist, so I will check around Anniston to see who's available.  If anyone has recommendations, let me know.  I am new to this and need all the help I can get.

I'm off to put on something soft and warm.  I'm curling up on the couch until my Shaun arrives to bake me comfort cookies.  Not the best for my skin, I'm sure, but I've been super careful with my diet lately and if cookies will at least make me feel emotionally better, then I'll take it.

Later, peeps.  ❤