MCTD Support Group

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) or Sharp's syndrome is a human autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body. MCTD combines features of polymyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and systemic scleroderma and is thus considered an overlap syndrome. MCTD commonly causes joint pain/swelling, Raynaud phenomenon, muscle inflammation, and scarring of...

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cocowyo 04/02/2011

I was diagnosed in November and occasionally have some shortness of breath when I go up a flight of stairs or if I "over do it" while doing housework. If I didn't have this disease, I would think I was just out of shape (which I am). However, I was wondering if any of you were given some sort of "base line" pulmonary function test or if doctors typically wait until things get bad.

Thanks!

cocowyo 04/02/2011

To clarify - I have only seen my rheumatologist twice and I did tell her about my shortness of breath during my last visit. I asked then if I needed any more testing and she said no.

MToennis 04/02/2011

I was given a PFT but after I had been on treatment for awhile. I think you would only get a test if you have symptoms. So, ask again or ask your GP!
Mary Ann

deleted_user 04/03/2011

Personally, I asked specifically for a PFT. Mine came out very good. Better than normal in fact. But it is good to get some extra info for the possibility of things getting worse. The best thing about a PFT - No drugs to effect your body.

tlfj00007 04/06/2011

After I was diagnosed, I was sent for a PFT and a ECG. They will need the test for comparsions if the symptons progress. Terry

deleted_user 04/06/2011

Hi
I suffer with breathlessness and I am both overweight and under fit. MCTD can effect your lung. I have had PFT and it showed my lungs are a lot older Thames me ;(. They say I have mild COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) this disease as nothing to do with weight or fitness however both can make symptoms worse.
Defiantly talk to you GP. PFT and Chest X rays are the only way to be sure.
All the best
Tiggy

deleted_user 04/08/2011

Yep. I was given a baseline EVERYTHING! Chest xray, hand xrays, pft's, ekg, echo and stress test...and, in August...I get to do it all over again!

cocowyo 04/08/2011

Thank you all for your advice. It's extremely helpful!!!

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