first of all .i think you need to find a new doctor.one that will let you talk about more than one symptom...it takes a long time to diagnois.good luck..hugs marie

You will need to see a rheumatologist to get a definite diagnosis. Have your GP refer you to one, and then have the following lupus-related diagnostic tests done: ANA, anti-DNA, anticardiolipin, and anti-Smith(Sm).

Thanks everybody. The doctor above was a rheumatologist. I have an appointment with a new one in a month. That's why I wanted to know what tests to get. He was the one who said it might be rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. A test just ruled out the arthritis. I have a sed rate of 85 and test positive for inflammation in my joints and muscles. Been going thru this for 8 years.

In the midst of a 2nd flare up. Lumps on my wrist and feet. Throat and neck swollen..
Sometimes hard to turn neck

Have mental fog and mispronounce words

Fatigue is unreal. I did not know it was possible to be this tired.
Joints and muscles hurt.

Dry mouth and hot flashes and chills.

Does any of this sound like lupus?
I can't take Nsaids, can't do the steriods or anti-malarial drugs.

Are there any other drugs to try?

Thank you everyone for your help.

Ask for a lupus work up.It has a lot of tests in it the maine one being ANA.
I would talk to the doctor when you first get there. Explain that you left the other because you did not feel as if you were being listened to. Tell the doctor you want to establish a working relationship with them for your health care. Remember YOU are the boss! The doctor is working for you. A good doctor will listen to you and answer you questions. Make a list of what you want to talk about. Do not let them fluff you off. If they do not want to cover your list and explain things to you so that you can undserstand them find a new doctor. You may have to go to more than one but you will eventully find one you can work with.
Good luck....Deb

I just answered a discussion post entitled "what are the main symptoms of lupus..." you may want to check it out. I listed the 11 symptoms that the ACR uses to determine a diagnosis of lupus. In order to be definitively diagnosed with lupus, a patient only has to manifest four of the 11 symptoms.

Look up the LUpus criteria from books or websites. There are like at least 10 and you must have at least 3 i think.
Get a copy of all your bloodwork, lab results. They will look at your wbc,rbc,dna,ana etc