Rheumatogy appointment

[EmChar]

hi recently referred to Rheumatologist for symptoms of Rheumatic condition. I had swollen salivary glands 2 years dry mouth so trouble eating; Reynauds phenomenon; aching muscles; fatigue. GP concerned about symptoms and negative ANA but queried staining/pattern. Appointment last Friday with Rheumatologist he said I had Primary Reynauds and no definitive blood results for Sjögrens. He was concerned about my swollen glands so sending me for scan and possible biopsy and maybe referral to another specialist. I had more blood tests for other proteins before I left. If anything on these Rheumatology will do follow up. I am very concerned my symptoms are worsening it is very uncomfortable to eat. I am only mostly able to eat most foods now. My eyes also irritate quite often. Anyone else had similar problems. Thanks. Emchar

[OldTed60]

Your description reads v much like Sjogren’s. How was the rheumatologist so sure that your Raynauds was primary? Did they test your nailfold capillaries perhaps? Raynauds is commonly associated with both Sjogren’s and Lupus - even more with Systemic Sclerosis. But ANA can take a while to show up for some and around 30% of those with Sjogren’s are negative (seronegative) so often need lip biopsy for diagnosis and treatment. There is a Sjogren’s community here on HU so might be worth joining although it’s quieter than this one as not hosted by a dedicated charity.

[Lizard28]

Hi, hopefully the scan will either put your mind at ease or it will find the cause. Try Salivax pastilles for your dry mouth and drink water with your food to get it down. I used to choke at night my mouth was so dry, I even had to put one in my mouth when I had a-scan and biopsy done a few years ago. Are you putting drops in your eyes, they will help. I found my rheumatologist just left me to find my own products when my bloods were negative. I eventually got referred to an ophthalmologist for my eyes which he helped solve that problem.