At a loss, multiple consultations still no answer...any idea?

Posted by change25 @change25, Apr 24, 2021

In the last year my health has rapidly declined, I've recently had a blood test which was normal except for my folate which was low. My Dr conducted an examination, but was unable to properly diagnose me.

Any idea what it may be from these symptoms:
*Pulsating headache, difficulty focusing.
*Weak eyes where they feel droopy along with being dry and painful.
*Dry and sore mouth.
*cheek and jaw pain.
*Changes in pigmentation, face appears gaunt.
*Back pain.
*Odd tingling sensation present in hands and feet.
*cold hands along with an odd rash present on hands and knuckles, which is a deep purple.

I know something isn't right, yet I'm unable to obtain the answers I need. I've added some images before the changes occurred to now so that you can get a context into what's occurred. Any insight will be greatly appreciated, many thanks.

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Hang in there @lacy2 ...I just joined this group and only read a little about your situation. I am hoping for the best for you. Sending good thoughts your way.

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Profile picture for change25 @change25

Update: As expected my bloods haven't revealed anything. Unbelievably the Dr stated that they're the best results they've seen for awhile... I've got a call scheduled for this Friday to discuss potential options. Any idea where I should go from here?

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@change25, I'm sorry to hear the blood tests didn't reveal anything to help uncover what is going on and causing your symptoms. If it were me I would do a little preparation for your call and discussion with your doctor or care team. There are some really good tips here - https://patientrevolution.org/visit-tools

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Profile picture for John, Volunteer Mentor @johnbishop

@change25, I'm sorry to hear the blood tests didn't reveal anything to help uncover what is going on and causing your symptoms. If it were me I would do a little preparation for your call and discussion with your doctor or care team. There are some really good tips here - https://patientrevolution.org/visit-tools

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Thanks John, I've managed to condense my symptoms to the three key issues bothering me. I've put a short script together so that I don't forget anything. I'll try to push him in the direction of referring me to a rhumatologist.

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Profile picture for change25 @change25

Thanks John, I've managed to condense my symptoms to the three key issues bothering me. I've put a short script together so that I don't forget anything. I'll try to push him in the direction of referring me to a rhumatologist.

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Well, now you have additional information to help in your investigation. That's a good thing.
Isn't John wonderful???? I love his dedication and research and attitude...I just think he's great and has helped so many folks on these sites. What a good link...Sounds like you've done your work and are ready for the visit. If he hears you, you'll be referred to a rheumatologist. I hope so, my friend.
Let us know. Pulling for you for the answers!
Blessings, elizabeth

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Profile picture for ess77 - Elizabeth @ess77

Well, now you have additional information to help in your investigation. That's a good thing.
Isn't John wonderful???? I love his dedication and research and attitude...I just think he's great and has helped so many folks on these sites. What a good link...Sounds like you've done your work and are ready for the visit. If he hears you, you'll be referred to a rheumatologist. I hope so, my friend.
Let us know. Pulling for you for the answers!
Blessings, elizabeth

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He's excellent, as are so many others on this platform. I had a feeling that the bloods wouldn't yield anything, I suppose the positive is that it'll have eliminated many conditions. Yes, I just need to be careful how I approach it - I need to push the Dr in the direction of what I believe should happen, while making him believe that he's making the call.

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Profile picture for change25 @change25

He's excellent, as are so many others on this platform. I had a feeling that the bloods wouldn't yield anything, I suppose the positive is that it'll have eliminated many conditions. Yes, I just need to be careful how I approach it - I need to push the Dr in the direction of what I believe should happen, while making him believe that he's making the call.

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@change25 I have seen your confidence grow so much over these past weeks! You are really doing a great job.
Is anyone going with you to your next appointment? Someone you know and trust and who sees what is going on with you. Someone who can take good notes.
Are you keeping a journal on all that is happening and doctor visits, etc.?

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@lacy2 I’m thinking about you today. How are you feeling? You say that you’re having a flare—what’s involved with a flare? Did you get bloodwork this morning or did you go to the ER? Becky

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Profile picture for Becky, Volunteer Mentor @becsbuddy

@change25 I have seen your confidence grow so much over these past weeks! You are really doing a great job.
Is anyone going with you to your next appointment? Someone you know and trust and who sees what is going on with you. Someone who can take good notes.
Are you keeping a journal on all that is happening and doctor visits, etc.?

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Thank you, it's all down to the support I've recieved on this platform. Unfortunately it isn't in person, but that's good as I can have all of my material in front of me. I'm keeping a record of everything that's happened since my initial call.

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@lacy2 Have you ever thought about making a poster of your favorite photos? You could then take a photo and shoe us! Becky

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Profile picture for change25 @change25

He's excellent, as are so many others on this platform. I had a feeling that the bloods wouldn't yield anything, I suppose the positive is that it'll have eliminated many conditions. Yes, I just need to be careful how I approach it - I need to push the Dr in the direction of what I believe should happen, while making him believe that he's making the call.

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You’re correct that at least the labs revealed what you don’t have. Definitely keep insisting that you see a rheumatologist and continue getting more lab work/tests until they find an answer. I’m finding now that apparently even if the lab work and symptoms indicate I have Sjogren’s, I have to go for more tests before I can see a rheumatologist and get treatment! Stay positive and persistent!

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