Bring It On! Not Scared!

[woodsman1972]

Hello all fellow "Weggie's" (is that the term?). I was diagnosed one month ago (July, 2010). Just found this forum and have found it very helpful so far. Thanks for all the input. I am told that my symptoms started about a year ago with some sinus problems. I didn't pay much attention to it until it infiltrated my lungs. I had a very "on the ball" ENT who immediately referred me to a rheumy. That has saved me so far. Got the team together: ENT, Rheumy, Pulmo, Hemo, and Nephro. All the doctors know each other and communicate regularly. This, I am told, is key. Kidneys functioning at about 3.7 Creatinine, 60mg Predisone/day, and the lungs and sinuses suffered no major damage so far. I have been told that I am an excellent candidate for full recovery which is fantastic. My second Cytoxan Tx is next week and my anemia is getting better with Anaseph injections. I know everyone's Tx is different, but any advice is always appreciated. I hope all of you achieve the quality of life you desire while dealing with this disease and please take care of yourselves.

Thanks again.

[elephant]

Welcome Woodsman, Hope your seeing a Wegeners specialist. This disease moves fast and furious! It can change on a dime. Hope you get in remission soon.:)

[misskay]

Welcome Woodsman :)

Lots of good folks here. Sit back, put your feet up and make yourself at home...

[Sangye]

Hi Woodsman, welcome to the group. Yes, it is key for your team to communicate and work well together, but having a Wegs specialist is the most important thing, bar none. This thread has info for those new to Wegs. Please check it out if you haven't already.

http://www.wegeners-granulomatosis.com/forum/general-wg-chat/986-what-newly-diagnosed-need-know.html

[woodsman1972]

Thanks Sangye. I have a very experienced Rheumy on this. My team appear energetic and competent (but what do I know, this is all so new to me). So far my lungs have completely cleared of all infiltrates, the Creatinine levels have steadily declined in my kidneys with no apparent chronic damage, and my sinuses show only minor signs of sinusitis. All this leads me to believe that the docs on my team are on the right path in regards to my meds and Tx. I will obviously keep a diligent eye on my condition and continue to ask lots of questions of them as we progress. I am fortunate to live in Houston, TX which has the largest and most diverse collection of hospitals/specialists in the world.

[Sangye]

How many Weggies has your rheumy treated?

[woodsman1972]

Not sure how many she is currently treating, but has informed me that has treated many in the past. I am lucky to have an uncle who is a nephro on my side that has treated many Wegs pts as well for a free second opinion when I need it. He has concurred with all of the treatment plans made by my team so far. Feel like I am in good hands, but will obviously be wary/diligent in all my future treatment.