Rheumatologist drew ana sedrate ena anca crp- if i have autoimmune issue are there other options other than steroids and cancer meds? i really do not want to be on them. -this is so hard to think about

No: Most of these steroids and immune modulators used for auto- immune diseases have really changed the disease course and its prognosis. They are excellent to keep the disease in remission. They do not cure the disease. And usually the doses used for effective therapy are small ( while the disease is in remission) however escalation of therapy is required for relapses.

One step at a time: You're working yourself into an anxiety state without knowing the results of your testing. Since they may turn out totally normal you will then not have to worry about those therapeutic options. If you do have an autoimmune process the doctor will then discuss all options of treatment with you, and you can make a determination of what seems acceptable. Relax. Don't get ahead of yourself.

Choosing treatment: Yes. I understand. I often recommend to my patients in these type of situations that you not spend a lot of energy worrying until you have the data and can go over the test results with your medical advisor. Then once you have their recommendation you can search online if this seems reasonable. I often recommend if they are open to it a naturopathic consultation as well to see what they offer.