Frustrated!

Just diagnosed in January and started meds a couple months ago . Well my Rhuemotologist just moved and I had a bad flare up so seen the new Dr yesterday. She educated me on Fibro, Lupus, Sjorens. As if I didn’t do any research. She says for sure I have Fibro and need to exercise and do water thErapy because she doesn’t like to medicate. And she s on the fence as to me having Lupus my blood work shows signs but my body doesn’t look like it. So why am I on 400mg plaqenil and flexerol and melexicam… I’m so frustrated… How can 1 Dr say I have Lupus and medicate me and another in the same office not so sure.

Hi, Michelle.

Lupus like Fibro is difficult to diagnose. As I understand it, having positive bloodwork isn’t a straightforward indicator for Lupus. It seems as if the doctors are basing their conclusions on their experience and what they professionally consider definitive diagnostic indicators. I myself would follow advice of the doctor I feel most comfortable with and find most knowledgable. Feel free to join our Lupus community also for member feedback on similar concerns.

Hugs,

Laurie

Yes, I agree that the Lupus community can shed some light on this. Blood levels fluctuate a lot, especially if you are on meds. So starting up with a new doctor can definitely seem like a step backward at first. On the bright side, if she was taking the time to tell you about Sjogren's and Lupus, then that means she knows something. I would take it as a good sign.

Thank You!!! I felt like she didn’t believe I was sick, but your probably right she s starting at step 1 and I’m looking for a fix and there isn’t really a true fix



Madere (dancermom) said:

Yes, I agree that the Lupus community can shed some light on this. Blood levels fluctuate a lot, especially if you are on meds. So starting up with a new doctor can definitely seem like a step backward at first. On the bright side, if she was taking the time to tell you about Sjogren’s and Lupus, then that means she knows something. I would take it as a good sign.

I am also on the Lupus site it’s amazing the support and info these sites have. Thanks for your response



BaltimoreBaby said:

Hi, Michelle.
Lupus like Fibro is difficult to diagnose. As I understand it, having positive bloodwork isn’t a straightforward indicator for Lupus. It seems as if the doctors are basing their conclusions on their experience and what they professionally consider definitive diagnostic indicators. I myself would follow advice of the doctor I feel most comfortable with and find most knowledgable. Feel free to join our Lupus community also for member feedback on similar concerns.

Hugs,

Laurie