Vasculitis? Second opinion?

[Cowsaresweet]

Most of my Lupus symptoms have reduced with medication. I am left with fatigue, migraines and ongoing issues with swelling, pain and discoloration around my knees, ultrasound didn't show anything, l am wondering if it might be vasculitis. So far I have seen my Rheumatologist twice, l am on hydroxychloroquine and prednisolone. l am wondering about getting a second opinion. Is it best to stick to a rheumatologist and if so any thoughts on how to find one in the Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, London area? If it is a vascular problem would a different specialty be worth considering?

[Jmiller623]

There is a lupus flavor of the vascular type. There was a recent paper that came out saying there are 4 flavors of lupus based on organ involvement and symptoms.

lupus.org/news/research-ide...

Lupus can have symptoms that are similar to any vasculitis which is why it’s called the great chameleon. It can look like anything.

With that being said, I don’t think that this requires different treatment and I don’t think that I would look for a second opinion. Sounds like your rheumatologist is doing right by you. Let your rheumatologist know that you are in pain and see if they can help you with that. Your pain may not be the lupus and should be treated as such. There are causes for fatigue outside of autoimmune conditions. Your GP can look into this including vitamin deficiencies eg Iron, B12, folate, vitamin D and thyroid studies.

Sending well wishes and hugs. ❤️xx

[Cowsaresweet in reply to Jmiller623]

Thank you for the link really interesting. Yes I must admit I am not sure quite what to do l have booked a telephone call with my GP to chat it through.

[Cas70]

I agree with Jmiller - I have so many symptoms and use a lot of natural stuff - Olbas Oil or Tiger Balm rubbed into painful knees really eases the pain. Drink lots of water. Rest when you can, don’t keep going. There isn’t a quick answer. Distract yourself. It does help. Prednisone I took for a year and it was wonderful but long term isn’t good. Hydroxychloroquine is a must. Good luck