Lupus, maybe?

Deni

Hello. I've been suffering with undiagnosed joint issues for a number of years. The pattern is usually, I have a few appointments that end in an x-ray and examination that are inconclusive. It started in my 20s with hands, 30s knees and now in my early 50s most joints and all over hours of stiffness including muscles. My new Dr is great and has taken it more seriously with x-rays and a number of blood tests. The only thing showing up is a slight indication of lupus. Funny, I've researched everything but lupus over the years. Now I've looked at the symptoms, I seem to be a good match. My Dr wants to retest me in three months. I'm wondering if I should push for a referral to a specialist at this point. My Dr is fantastic but he admitted, he'd never diagnosed lupus before. Any thoughts?

Tom

Morning @Deni and welcome to the community. It seems that you have been struggling for some time to get an explanation for your joint pain, but a recent change in GP has put you on a more hopeful path. Certainly, a referral to a specialist would help, but in the meantime, here are some links to information from our website:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/lupus-sle/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2020/may/have-positivity-and-hope-in-your-armoury-there-is-always-hope-there-is-always-help-available-and-you-will-have-possibilities-and-options-open-to-you/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2021/may/ask-the-expert-learn-more-lupus/

Let us know how you get on, and good luck.

Tom

Jona

Hi Deni,

live been where you are and it’s very unpleasant i however have not been supported in the way your new Dr is doing so I would ask for a referral to a rheumatologist although they diagnosed osteoarthritis and fybro in my case but I agree it is very distressing not getting a correct diagnosis is frustrating

good luck and take care 😊