Sarah, youre doing great at this--it takes time and it isnt easy this being such a rare disease for us to know exactly what is right to do. You as a Nurse, thats a bit a trouble too LOL.. We were always taught that the DR knows best--sometimes that isnt true, it depends on if youre talking to a mast cell expert or an MD who wants you to go away because you scare them.
Hon, we need to take more meds than the average person and that one is so very hard for me. We tend to get ourselves in trouble because we are always thinking, "I shouldnt be taking all these meds, I will over-dose!" No-no, You MUST take the meds that calm your reactions and keep you safe from going into shock.
Its hard for us to see ourselves as the patient, I truly understand. My job let me go saying, "Youre sicker than the people you are treating." and it was true. I still have a bit of depression over that one. My identity as a nurse was how I valued myself and suddenly I had no value
I had to learn who I was all over again and sometimes I still have a good cry over it. It helps to reach out to others. I never would have made it without this board and all of you. We need each other and are truly the real life "life-lines" to this weird rare illness.
Now about your throat--your own "feelings" are correct, dont question yourself. You can feel either way--like an obstruction or a thickening or even just an irritation that makes you want to cough and cough. Do exactly what you did by taking your Benadryl, and if it ever doesnt work for you, follow it with a dose of Prednisone (ONLY if your Benadryl doesnt work. It will save you from a 911 trip to the ER
You have excellent sense--follow them! Youre gonna do fine
Hugs
Ramona