I need advice! During my last pregnancy, at the age of 43, I experienced several episodes of a skin rash following sun exposure. Red, nickel-sized, raised welts on my upper arms, torso and back. Funny thing, the rash didn't itch rather it hurt deep in my tissue. I miscarried at 16-weeks, 8 weeks later I saw a Dermatologist and I just so happened to have this rash at the time of my appointment. The Dermatologist performed a skin biopsy. The results came back with a positive ANA 1:6.4, homogenous, all other "Antibodies" negative, except a high anticardiolipin IgM antibody. During my first trimester I had an elevated d-Dimer - 2.51(i.e, increase risk for a pulmonary embolism). CT scan was negative.
Fast forward 10 years: I have an official diagnosis of SubAcute Cutaneous Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Osteoarthritis of my lower back/cervical spine, R Sciatica with radiculopathy and neuropathy, Chronic Kidney stones, proteinuria/hematuria, borderline thrombocytopenia, tendinitis of R shoulder/elbow, joint pain with morning stiffnes, PTSD encompassing insomnia/social behavior disorder/anxiety/major depressive disorder, mucosal sores, alopecia, hx of infections (e.g. urinary tract, kidney, candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, chronic bronchitis, herpes zoster), metacarpalpharengeal and bilateral wrist neuropathy, occasional swelling in hands/feet, cognitive dysfunction (i.e, memory loss, inability to maintain focus/concentration, disorganization, low tolerance), headaches/migraines, dizziness with occasional vertigo and syncopal episodes, IBS, GERD, OSA with CPAP, and PLMD, Pleuritic chest pain, SOB, Premature Atrial Contractions, COPD, and decreased Diffusion Lung Capacity. The only symptom I do not have is "weight loss!" Go figure! Thanks menopause! Lol
I am a twin and my mother has Crohn's Disease. In the past 10 years I have seen a total of 5 Rheumatologists both in the private sector and within the VA healthcare system. That is where I am currently receiving my healthcare. I cannot get my Rheumatologist to listen to me regarding Systemic Lupus. What to do?