Autoimmune Disease / Lupus / Fibromyalgia???

[Blessings101]

Hi All,

I am at a dead end and unable to get a clear diagnosis. I have had three ANA tests and all have been positive for Autoimmune disease, suspecting Lupus.

However seen a rheumatologist who ran further blood tests and diagnosed me with fibromyalgia. She put me on meds which included meds for Autoimmune disease.

My symptoms are fatigue, fever, really painfull joint pains and swelling, especially legs, ankles and hands, eyes sensitive to light. I also have chest pains often, daily headaches which turn into migraines. I recently discovered three lesions on my scalp.

I am waiting to see a dermatologist.

Just wanted to know if anyone has had similar symptoms.

[Chanpreet_Walia LUPUS UK]

Hi Blessings101,

Fibromyalgia can be commonly diagnosed during early stages of lupus. Some of the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia overlap with symptoms of lupus such as tiredness, stiffness of the joints and increased sensitivity to bright lights. The FMA UK website provides information on fibromyalgia and its symptoms as well as useful links for local support networks, advice and over-lapping conditions: fmauk.org/

To find out about specific tests are criteria that are needed to make a diagnosis of lupus, visit lupusuk.org.uk/getting-diag...

You may find our booklet on lupus and the skin helpful, especially because of the lesions on the head - lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

According to The Lupus Encyclopedia, a discoid rash typically occurs in the shape of small round or disc-shaped areas. It usually begins as small, reddish bumps. The red area spreads outward, but in the middle of the area where the bumps initially appeared there will be a scarred area of skin with permanent loss of hair and pigment changes to the skin. Discoid lupus erythematosus occurs most commonly on the face and neck area.

To read our article on 'coping with light-sensitivity', click here lupusuk.org.uk/coping-with-...

I hope your appointment with the dermatologist goes well. Please keep us updated.

[Blessings101 in reply to Chanpreet_Walia]

Thank you so much for your response Chanpreet_Walia. The more information the better. Much appreciated.

The dermatologist is convinced it is lupus. He took a sample of the lesions and will send it for tests. I should have the results by Monday next week. Will definitely keep you updated.

[Blessings101 in reply to Blessings101]

Good Evening All,

So my dermatologist has confirmed it is discoid lupus as well as dense fibrosis. He has advised I see a Rheumatologist ASAP, and convinced I have had these lesions for a very long time, possibly years.

I am so fortunate to have received an appointment with a Rheumatologist for tomorrow. However don't know what lies ahead.

Will keep you updated.

God Bless All and Take Care

[Poppypig]

Impressive scabby scalp, I'm not diagnosed with anything but have lots of smaller scabby bits on the top of my scalp too. Use betacap when I'm really off and does ease the soreness. Not found any difference with different shampoos and tried lots, so i stick with what I like.

[Blessings101 in reply to Poppypig]

Hi Poppypig,

I would strongly recommend you see a dermatologist and get a biopsy done. I went today and the dermatologist is convinced it is lupus. He took a sample of the lesions and will send it for tests. I should have the results by Monday next week. Will definitely keep you updated.

[Poppypig in reply to Blessings101]

Thank you but more worried about my mind presently, but will follow your advice when a bit better.

[Blessings101 in reply to Poppypig]

Hi,

I pray all of the best for you.