Positive ANA’s and GI issues

Posted by ali1974 @ali1974, Oct 4, 2020

Hello:
I am new to this group and have a few questions. I have tested ANA positive 2 times and possibly PBC.
I believe I have some of the symptoms such as itchy skin, a lot of stomach issues and pain, swelling and horrible dizziness. I am wondering if anyone can share
how they were diagnosed and what are the steps. I am meeting with my GI doctor to discuss in a few days.
Thank you in advance for your input.
Regards,
Ali

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Autoimmune Diseases Support Group.

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Oct 5, 2020

@ali1974, there are a couple of related discussions about ANA readings on Connect here:
- Question on ANA and dsDNA: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/question-on-ana-and-dsdna/
- Positive ANA and ENA Panel: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/positive-ana-and-ena-panel/

With a potential diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis, I'd also like to tag @astaingegerdm @rosemarya and @pjkb1health on this discussion as they may have more info to share.

Ali, have you started a list of questions for the GI specialist to help you remember during your appointment? What questions do you want to ask the specialist?

ali1974 | @ali1974 | Oct 5, 2020

Than you for your reply, I have been referred to a rheumatologist for additional testing and I have been reading about PBC. I have been sick for a very long time. I have breast and ovarian cancer. I am positive for both BRCA2 and MSH6 genes. I figured it’s just another hill to overcome. I am always overwhelmed with health issues and seems like it never ends honestly. I have the procedure scheduled 10/12, so at least I won’t have to wait long. I am very fearful of the procedure. With past medical problems I have developed that white coat syndrome I think. My questions, I suppose will come after the procedure , like staging etc.
I also suffer from myopathy that doesn’t seems to super aloof because I can’t get one dr. to not sweep it under the rug. Very frustrated. I am sorry if I appear jade or ungrateful because I am not just upset today. I appreciate you reaching out to me. All opinions are welcomed.
Regards,
Ali