Today it was mostly good news at the doctor’s office.  My hearing test shows that my hearing is back where it was a couple of weeks ago, so that means that the things that happened over the last few days were temporary fluctuations rather than permanent drops in my hearing.  That was great news!  The doctor feels pretty certain that what I have is inner ear autoimmune disease.  He discussed a test that was done on animals regarding a course of treatment that was effective, but explained that it doesn’t necessarily mean it will react the same way in humans. It is  a way to treat for autoimmune problems, so that is why he chose the course of action that he did.  Basically, he wants me to go on a 6 month course of steroids.  It will be at the same dose I’m on now (20 mg).  We discussed once again the side effects and I shared with him some of my concerns about continuing with steroids, but the conclusion at the end of the discussion was that the benefit far outweighs the risk for me now and he recommends that I do it.  I decided to take his advice.  He said it’s important for me to do the entire 6 month course to get the benefit. I told him that I feel that some of the side effects I’ve experienced are improving…I thought due to getting down to a lower dose, so I was thinking I might not have too many side effects at this dose.  He said that’s not the case and that I will gain weight and my face will puff up more (!!!) …it’s pretty unavoidable.  Not something I’m looking forward to, but worth it if my hearing becomes and stays stable.  He wants to see me in the office if I have any more fluctuations or drops in hearing.  It’s important to catch them as early as possible.  So….the good news is that my hearing fluctuations did not result in permanent hearing loss and we are not at a point of saying that  treatment isn’t working and allowing nature to take it’s course.  I also see it as good news if we finally have a diagnosis.  The only downside is more months of side effects from the prednisone.  Hopefully they will be minimal.  Please pray that that will be the case.  I appreciate all of you who take the time to check in on me here and take the time to read my blog!  I also appreciate the prayers and encouragement!