I think that working with a rheumatologist is key, although I’m indebted to the neurologist for suggesting Sjogren’s. Now, I’m hoping I am on the right track. And, hopefully this path will bring you answers as well!

The rheumatologist said I was definitely given “bad genes.” What I’ve read is that a lot of what influences what diseases we get are our genes.

These then have “triggers” which may set the “bad genes” into action. In my case, both PBC and Sjogren’s can be triggered by infections, including things like giardiasis. Unfortunately, I contracted this three times and had the first episode, 15 years ago, for nearly a year as my physician didn’t correctly diagnosis it.

I think there does seem to be a correlation with things that make our symptoms worse, like the sun and eating high levels of carbohydrates. It’s definitely a challenge to figure out what affects us individually and what works to treat us and our symptoms. Right now I’m sticking with eating well and walking 2 or so miles a day. And of course researching and waiting for my next doctors appointment!