after going to a dermotologist for some brittle nail issues, the doctor decided to run a series of blood test. I was surprised and extremely worried when i was told that i tested positive for lupus. After thinking about some symptoms i have been experiencing within the last year or so (extreme fatigue, a twisted ankle that never seemed to fully heal etc.,) I could now see how this diagnosis came about. Should I be worried? What should I expect in my future? Anyone know any good doctors I can see to further run some more test? I was told to see a rheumatologist.
I 'm just curious what blood test they did to assume you had lupus? I was also told by my Dr that I tested positive for lupus just because I had a positive ANA and I am perfectly healthy
Definitely see a rheumatologist. It may be lupus (there are two different types), but it may not be lupus. I do't know what the blood test was, but my sister was told she had lupus, but she didn't. I believe it is a high ANA that they go by, but in our family high ANA seems to be a trend with no lupus. We do have some fibromyalgia though. You need a proper diagnosis, but even with that there are natural and herbal remedies that can help. I've seen it. Doctors will balk, but don't just accept. Yes, doctors know a lot and I am grateful for my doctors, but they are human and they don't know everything. Do your research. Ask questions.
I have never been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I don't really want to know, but my mother and my sister have it and I had some of the symptoms. I have combatted that with vitamins and herbs and exercise and I feel great!
Last, lots of women live with Lupus and some choose meds that can help quite a bit. Try not to worry, just get out there and learn how to best take care of yourself.
The Rheumatologist is the specialist who treats lupus and other auto immune diseases. Life style changes will help with the fatique. Google National Lupus Foundation for more information regarding your disease. Make the appointment with the Rheumatologist ASAP so that you can start treatment.
Best to you
look up the lupus foundation too.. they will have a lot of info.. my friend has lupus and watches what she eats, excersises.. and is doing great... she is 3o
it depends on how your lupus hits your system. you have not indicated your age. My aunt has systemic lupus, it moves around her body aggravaiting different areas of her body. and depending on her stress she can have a full blown attack and be bed ridden for days at a time. pretty much there is no cure just meds to help with calming you down (anti anxiety drugs) and pain relief. She was diagnoised about 10 years ago she was 38. and she kept having mini strokes and it took about a year before they were able to pin point her condition. They kept blaming it on her being high strung type "AA" personality. I would diffently get a second opion from a "hemotologist" get your blood fully checked. other than that dont get worked up until you get that second opion. good luck
E. have been diagnosed with lupus at the age of 19(now 33)if you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask,and you can go to lupus.org for any info you may need,and they also provide support groups for you there. i have to say in all the years i have had to deal with this disease god has been very good to me and i only see my doctor once a year and take one pill daily,my joints give me problems once in a great while but are not too bad. there are certain things that have happened in my life that i have to deal with health wise,but i don't know if they would be everyday problems a person would have or if i was more sensitive to them because i have lupus. every person is different,i am a person who makes the choice to exercise daily and take a chewable vit.c pill to help me out immune wise and believe this helps me out in the long run,i defiately no matter what though do experience the extreme fatigue,i think that is something that will always be there. there are probably herbs etc. that may help out there. also,i bought a book from lupis.org that explains all about lupus above and beyond it's called the lupus book actually. like,i said if you have any questions please ask,one thing i want to say is to always keep your head up,rest where you need to be easier on yourself and give yourself a break,but never let the disease be your name live like you were never diagnosed and this will help you when you are in your down times.
god bless and be with you.
