I relate. It was since my early 20’s until about 5 years ago. Even then, my doctor did NOT do the ANA for Lupus but, rather, psoriatic arthritis (I had blistering, horrible itching rashes on both legs for years). The test came back Positive for Hashimoto’s (of which we were already treating) and SLE.

I’m sticking with good old prednisone to help the outcome of the flare that I can tell is coming on and often do nothing and the issue goes away so I don’t need prednisone all the time. After all, every medical professional told me, with no test but just a glance to the face and would smile and say “You don’t have Lupus.” .

I’m sorry you’re going through this. It takes trying out another doctor, or becoming more aggressively proactive for yourself. And, I wish I knew how they were just pulling the wool over my eyes. It was easier than researching for a patient.

Best of luck. Please know that I’m 77 and I am always questioned by other than my own doctor “do you see a special doctor?”, to which I reply that every doctor all my life just treated my symptoms. Nobody knew what the plethora of issues were and, yes, I often got the intense feeling that I was being ridiculed. I changed several doctors and am happy with my doctor of about 12 years.

Have faith. You are NOT alone in your feelings.

Love,
Sharin