My husband was Diagnosed with MCTD last September 2017. His symptoms include swollen parotid gland and mild Raynauds. He was referred by his primary care physician to a rheumatologist when his labwork came back positive for anti RNP and ANA. He was seen by Rheumatologist late September and started on prednisone. He is now on his 3rd week with this medication. I encourage him to do daily cardio ex for 20-30 mins a day. His diet consists of fruits including blue berries, apples, grapes, bananas. No fast food. He drinks cranberry juice, lots of water. No soda. He is supposed to have his echo doppler ultrasound for the heart and CT of the lungs to check the integrity of these organs. His initial chest x ray showed scarring on his lungs. His Oxygen saturation is normal.
Is anyone there with scarring in the lungs? Whats the treatment?
I developed breathing problems a few months ago, and found that I have pulmonary hypertension related to MCTD. For me, my breathing problems are much worse after drinking a lot of water or eating a large meal. You might have him restrict fluids for a while and see if he feels any better. Too much fluid puts pressure on the lungs. I don't know if that could cause the scarring that you mentioned, but just another factor to consider. I've always drank a lot of water, so it's kind of hard for me to cut back. But I feel so much better when my fluid intake is low.
Best of luck to you