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Positive ANA: What might be the cause?

Autoimmune Diseases | Last Active: Sep 26, 2023 | Replies (94)

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@athenalee

Rick, have you contacted mercury toxicity researchers directly? Like the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences? Or, ones affiliated with hospitals? I recently contacted a research center in immunology, sent a brief on my medical history, recent blood labs, and symptoms and a research MD, specialist in Sjogren’s and other autoimmune diseases, replied to me the next day. We spoke for about 20 minutes and he asked me to send my full lab report and a couple hours later he wrote back.

After looking at my labs he confirmed that I most likely do have Sjogren’s and outlined the specialists I need to see and tests I need to have. He’s also concerned, due to other indicators in my labs, that I may have another disease going on which requires some special test not very many labs can do. So, I at least have a mission to work with specialists and hopefully get the tests and treatment I need. I live in a rural area so few, if any, MD specialists know much about rare autoimmune disorders. But, I am at least more hopeful.

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Replies to "Rick, have you contacted mercury toxicity researchers directly? Like the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences?..."

Hello Athenalee, please keep us posted as to your outcomes regarding Sjögren’s. I believe I have recently developed the same as a result of my SFN, having the usual dry eyes, mouth, ears and skin. I had to wait for 3 months for my rheumatologist appt. so the Sjögren’s hasn’t been actually diagnosed yet. I’ve been able to deal with the new symptoms and prefer not to take drugs if I don’t absolutely need them. I did have labs done and my ANA was negative. Due to diet changes a year ago for my SFN I have lost over 10 lbs. and am trying without success to gain it back! I wish you the best with your testing and treatments. Helen

What doctor knows about autoimmune disorders? I’ve been to a hematologist/oncologist and rheumatologist but no help in regarding this