Lupus Support Group
Lupus is an auto-immune disease in which the immune system cannot distinguish between threats (like viruses and bacteria), and healthy cells and tissue. As a result, the body produces antibodies that inflict cell damage, most commonly targeting joints, skin, kidneys and the nervous system. Join the group and find support for coping with lupus.
Hello,
I am seeking some information on Lupus as well as to ask if any of you had a difficult time getting a confirmed diagnose?
I m 58 years old, and have had several odd symptoms since my 20's.
At first I got very sick, slight red butterfly rash on face, but only with heat and after showers, severe arthritis in feet, neuropathy in feet to knees, anxiety, heart palpitations, fatigue, thinning hair and lost pigment in my skin. I also suffer from migraines, tinnitus and sensitivity to light at times. I have had an abnormal MRI for years, which they state possibly due to migraines or some odd immune disorder. Otherwise I am healthy, I work full time and live a pretty happy life.
I have learned pretty much to keep carrying on and deal with the symptoms as they come and go.
Needless to say I have been tested through out the years for just about everything under the sun. They ruled out MS, tumors, cancer and diabetes. And just keep saying I have an odd immune disorder.
My ANA has been normal up until a few months ago it read high, but my family Dr. still says he does not think I have Lupus. My sister years ago was also been diagnosed with possible Lupus.
Most of my symptoms go into remission, but return in flares and continue this pattern.
Any input would be appreciated, thanks!!
Lucy
I am seeking some information on Lupus as well as to ask if any of you had a difficult time getting a confirmed diagnose?
I m 58 years old, and have had several odd symptoms since my 20's.
At first I got very sick, slight red butterfly rash on face, but only with heat and after showers, severe arthritis in feet, neuropathy in feet to knees, anxiety, heart palpitations, fatigue, thinning hair and lost pigment in my skin. I also suffer from migraines, tinnitus and sensitivity to light at times. I have had an abnormal MRI for years, which they state possibly due to migraines or some odd immune disorder. Otherwise I am healthy, I work full time and live a pretty happy life.
I have learned pretty much to keep carrying on and deal with the symptoms as they come and go.
Needless to say I have been tested through out the years for just about everything under the sun. They ruled out MS, tumors, cancer and diabetes. And just keep saying I have an odd immune disorder.
My ANA has been normal up until a few months ago it read high, but my family Dr. still says he does not think I have Lupus. My sister years ago was also been diagnosed with possible Lupus.
Most of my symptoms go into remission, but return in flares and continue this pattern.
Any input would be appreciated, thanks!!
Lucy
Mary Ann
First and foremost, you can be diagnosed with Lupus with one positive ANA in combination with your symptoms. If you have a sibling or other family relative with Lupus, the chances you have it are greater.
The butterfly rash and flares are enough to make me think it could be Lupus but if you are not satisfied with the answers your physician is providing, I would suggest you make an appointment with a rheumatologist.
With that said, it took them 3 years to finally diagnose me with SLE. Hang in there!