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← Return to Lupus or not Lupus?
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@thecyborgenchi Hi, and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I think you’ll find that everyone in this group is very helpful and should have some answers for you.
I, also, have an autoimmune disease and know how hard it can be to get diagnosed. Just don’t give up! Have you seen a rheumatologist? Most of them are specialists in AD… you will need to get a referral from your doctor, first.
While you are waiting for an appointment, you can start to get yourself together/organized. Make a list of symptoms that are from this year and are still bothering you. Keep your list concise and to the point. Also prepare any questions you may have. One thing, be sure not to complain about the healthcare system and/or other doctors. They already know it can be tough.
Think you can start making a list today?
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Hi Becky! Thank you for responding. I have not seen a rheumatologist. We have a rheumatology department at our local hospital, but there's only a visiting NP that specializes in rheumatology, and she practices at another office that's over an hour away, so... I'm not sure if that's the best choice or not. I basically live in a black hole when it comes to quality "health" care or specialists. I have to stay in the state, because of my insurance, and typically any referral I receive will take me 2-3 hours away in any of 3 directions. So it's an all-day ordeal. But I guess it's a start. I had planned to call my primary's office tomorrow since nobody called me back today, and I will ask for a referral.
And yes, I can definitely start on a symptom list. Concise and to the point I can do, but it will be lengthy. I don't even know where to start with questions, but I'm sure some things will come up while I make the list. I am also open to suggestions.
Again, thank you. I feel like I'm going crazy and I am SO exhausted having to work so hard to find out what is wrong. 7 years of starting and stopping repeatedly has worn my resolve down. So, I deeply appreciate you reaching out and pointing me in a direction - hopefully it's the right one and I can get some answers AND help soon!