My wife has autoimmune disease. She has inflammation in legs and arms.

Posted by twinsgyros @twinsgyros, Apr 25, 2023

Does autoimmune disease (Sjogrens, Lupus, Hashimotos) cause pain and inflammation in groin, legs, arms and shoulders ? She has had every image (1 xray, 5 MRIs and a bone scan) taken and has seen her primary, an orthopedic surgeon, ER doctors, rheumatologist. My wife has seen her rheumatologist and she ruled out PMR after one steroid regimen. Blood tests did show very high sed rate and creatine levels. She was finally referred to a pain management doctor along with his neurologist. They have ruled out any musculoskeletal and referred her back to her rheumatologist.

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Hello @twinsgyros, Welcome to Connect. I know it must be frustrating for both you and your wife to see so many doctors and specialists and still not have a diagnosis and treatment. You mentioned PMR was ruled out. There are many other conditions that can mimic PMR and have some or all of the same symptoms. The following article might be helpful just to see if any of the conditions seem to fit.

--- Diseases that mimic polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR): https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diseases-that-mimic-polymyalgia-rheumatica

Have you thought about seeking a second opinion at a teaching hospital or a major health facility like Mayo Clinic?

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@johnbishop

Hello @twinsgyros, Welcome to Connect. I know it must be frustrating for both you and your wife to see so many doctors and specialists and still not have a diagnosis and treatment. You mentioned PMR was ruled out. There are many other conditions that can mimic PMR and have some or all of the same symptoms. The following article might be helpful just to see if any of the conditions seem to fit.

--- Diseases that mimic polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR): https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diseases-that-mimic-polymyalgia-rheumatica

Have you thought about seeking a second opinion at a teaching hospital or a major health facility like Mayo Clinic?

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Thanks for the information. Will research the article. We are planning to see her rheumatologist one more time. Yes, we are already considering a second opinion. As her doctor is out of Vanderbilt (Nashville, TN), if she cannot figure anything out, we will be asking to be referred to the Vanderbilt Undiagnosed Disease Program.

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I am battling the same thing. I take Mobic (prescription anti-inflammatory) but it only takes the edge off. I have Fibromyalgia, Graves Disease, Hashimotos and Ostearthritis almost all over. I soak in epsom salt, use Voltaren gel (apply at least 4 times a day) and use heat packs. Praying for your wife. It's no fun. I see a reumatologist next week so stay tuned......

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Diagnosed with R/A about two years ago, it has gone to my lungs causing scar tissue and difficulty breathing, my feet, knees, legs, back, and fingers hurt all the time. I have been getting Orencia infusions once a month. I take tylenol, multi-vitamins, turmeric capsules, Gluucosamine HCI Chondroitin Sulfate, and Fall Asleep Faster gummies, to sleep when the pain gets worse. General weakness and tiredness all the time, use a walker all the time. Don't know what else to do.

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@covidstinks2023

I am battling the same thing. I take Mobic (prescription anti-inflammatory) but it only takes the edge off. I have Fibromyalgia, Graves Disease, Hashimotos and Ostearthritis almost all over. I soak in epsom salt, use Voltaren gel (apply at least 4 times a day) and use heat packs. Praying for your wife. It's no fun. I see a reumatologist next week so stay tuned......

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Thank you for sharing. My wife has had Fibromyalgia (prednisone pack worked for that) and has Hashimotos.

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@covidstinks2023

I am battling the same thing. I take Mobic (prescription anti-inflammatory) but it only takes the edge off. I have Fibromyalgia, Graves Disease, Hashimotos and Ostearthritis almost all over. I soak in epsom salt, use Voltaren gel (apply at least 4 times a day) and use heat packs. Praying for your wife. It's no fun. I see a reumatologist next week so stay tuned......

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Thoughts and prayers to you too. If you get a chance please let me know how your appointment goes. Thank you.

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I have taken prednisone several times and it does help tremendously with pain, BUT, the side effects of longterm prednisone are brutal. God bless you & yours. God is able....Eph. 3:20

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@sgp21

Diagnosed with R/A about two years ago, it has gone to my lungs causing scar tissue and difficulty breathing, my feet, knees, legs, back, and fingers hurt all the time. I have been getting Orencia infusions once a month. I take tylenol, multi-vitamins, turmeric capsules, Gluucosamine HCI Chondroitin Sulfate, and Fall Asleep Faster gummies, to sleep when the pain gets worse. General weakness and tiredness all the time, use a walker all the time. Don't know what else to do.

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@sgp21 I just hate to hear of someone having pain all the time. What do you do on a daily basis to manage the pain? The Arthritis Foundation should be a good resource for you
https://www.arthritis.org/treatments
No one should have untreated pain!
Have you had some good conversations about your pain with your doctor?
Will you please let me know what your doctor says and does?

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@twinsgyros

Thoughts and prayers to you too. If you get a chance please let me know how your appointment goes. Thank you.

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Won't be seeing the rheumatologist. She replied via portal that my wife's options would possibly be, ironically, go to the Mayo Clinic or John's Hopkins. Impossible for us at this time as I am going through cancer treatments and we are the caregivers for my disabled step-son. Feeling like she believes there is nothing really wrong. Jeesh.

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@covidstinks2023

I have taken prednisone several times and it does help tremendously with pain, BUT, the side effects of longterm prednisone are brutal. God bless you & yours. God is able....Eph. 3:20

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Thanks for thoughts and prayers. We have faith. Did see that doctor's provide prescription calcium and vitamin D to offset effects of long term prednisone usage.

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