some updates

Well, I saw yet another doctor yesterday.  This was the GI doc for all my stomach issues.  He was really nice.  He believes all my GI issues were likely caused by my Medrol use.  He said it is one of the more potent of the corticosteroids.  He said if you look at the side effects of these meds, it is a mile long and GI problems are common.  He said just what damage has been caused (or if its all being caused by something else entirely) we just wont know without some further testing.  So I am supposed to call on Monday or Tuesday to schedule a stomach ct, an abdominal ultrasound, and an upper endoscopy.   I am scared to death of the upper GI.  He said it really is not as bad as you think and I will be under concious sedation for it.  I have talked to a couple of people who have had them and said it really is not what you think and I will do fine.   I sure hope so.  Somehow the thought of someone sticking a camera down my throat just doesnt sit well with me.  I have been sticking to a rather bland diet and so the pain I was having so much in one area has been a bit better but I continue to have a lot of bloating and just cant eat much.  I have lost 8 lbs in 3 weeks and the GI doc said that was concerning.  If anything, on a steroid, I should be gaining weight.  I have been off the Medrol for about a week now.
I continue to have the pain in my upper arms and legs.  My dermatologist feels that I have tapered off the steroids too quick but what other choice did I have?  They were literally ripping my stomach apart?  Its a total catch 22 and is very frustrating. 
I also have an appointment with a new rheumatologist but not until November 30th.  They do have me on a cancellation list.  That's also my daughters 11th birthday.  :)
My own birthday is coming up on the 26th.  Happy freakin birthday to me!