Sjogren's Syndrome Support Group

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which immune cells attack and destroy the exocrine glands that produce tears and saliva. It also associated with rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, and it is rheumatoid factor positive in 90 percent of cases.

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beekaboo 09/16/2013

I had been having these horrible pains in my muscles and joints and I thought that it was just from my graves disease. But my doctor said it sounded like RA. she ran some rests and ruled out RA. I'm going to call a rheumatologist tomorrow to make an appointment but I wanted to see if anyone could look at my abormal labs and see if it looks like Sjogren's syndrome. I am hoping I don't have lupus. Is this illness like lupus? Anyone please help!

RDW
12.3-15.4
12.0 %

Neutrophils (Absolute)
1.8-7.8
9.6 x10E3/uL
Abnormal

Eos (Absolute)
0.0-0.4
0.5 x10E3/uL
Abnormal
Sjogren's Anti-SS-A
0.0-0.9
>8.0 AI
Abnormal

RA Latex Turbid.
0.0-13.9
24.7 IU/mL
Abnormal

MButterfly 09/16/2013

I posted on your thread in the Lupus support group.

MButterfly 09/16/2013

Sjorgren's can feel somewhat like Lupus (I have both). Sjorgren's mainly attacks the mucous membranes, tear ducts, etc. It can make you feel very dry - there's aches and pains associated with it too. With treatment, it doesn't have to be the end of life as you know it.

Here's a good description of the disease - but remember - there IS treatment for it:
http://www.sjogrens.org/home/about-sjogrens-syndrome

MButterfly 09/16/2013

http://www.sjogrens.org/home/about-sjogrens-syndrome/symptoms

http://vimeo.com/16671907

Remember, you need to see your Rheumy before accepting this dx. Auto-immune diseases can be complex animals.

Good luck and godspeed.

beekaboo 09/17/2013

Thank you again for your help. I know I freaked a bit. I'm just in so much pain I want them to DX me asap and help me so I can go on with my life. :/

I will keep you updated.

MButterfly 09/17/2013

Hey, when I was in your shoes - I freaked out big time. No worries there.

In my experience, freaking out only brings more flares. It takes practice not to freak out, and I'm hoping this is a one-shot deal for ya and you get answers after you see your Rheumy.

I posted on your other thread - asking about Thyroid issues - your thyroid history in particular.

Keep us posted, and hang in.

janetwhite35 09/17/2013

My Rheumy stated that Sjogren's was a sister to Lupus. I don't think it is quite as aggressive but can cause very similar problems. And of course, you can have mild, moderate or severe. I do not understand your labs as mine were never explained to me. I had one abnormal test was retested and told I came back positive for Sjogrens even though my sed rate supposedly was normal. I am going to a new Rheumy at the end of October. I would like to be retested as it has been over three years and I know things can change. I wish you luck with your diagnosis and I hope you receive good help in feeling better.

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