Avascular Necrosis

[suemh2]

Hi. I'm being checked out for AVN (hip). I have a long history of being prescribed prednisone, have SLE and have had, still have pain and mobility problems, particularly my right hip. I also have some vascular problems, SLE causing right sided heart block . Has anyone been diagnosed with AVN? Any info from the patient point of view would be much appreciated thanks

[Chapter]

Hello suemh2,

I am sorry to hear of your hip pain, it makes every part of your life difficult and exhausting. I do hope it is not AVN. I have had trouble with my right hip and after several months of pain did accept the recommended Steroid shot which helped a lot. Aside from the occasional scare most hip pain has been bareable since and gets better with rest. I wish you luck and less pain.

I am interested in your comment that vascular problems caused right-sided heart block. Can you tell me how that was diagnosed?

I had to get a pacemaker in November because of heart block. I knew that I was not doing well but thought it was my Lupus - you know, tired and sore all the time and every job felt to big to do. Turned out my heart was not working very good which was caught accidentally and had to be dealt with right away. I questioned Cardiologist about whether it was from Lupus but he was not interested in discussing why just how to fix it. Have since found several references to SLE and heart block (not just babies). You are suggesting yours is a vascular problem, mine apparently is electrical. When I was first diagnosed my Rheumatologist said to keep an eye on my heart and lungs, not sure how you do that 🤷🏻‍♀️ without having to keep reminding your GP that you have Lupus. Anyway, I am rambling, just interested in your thoughts,

Chapter 🌹