I was diagnosed three years ago with Primary Sjorgens like you all yes I have a vast array of symptoms and complaints.
I have been to see a Rheumy several times he feels at that (stage 3 years ago) my condition was only mild sjorgens and he really didn't want to know me and told me that SJS is only a young persons condition by the way I am 55, so my GP God Bless him has been the main person that has been looking after me and thankfully he has had experience with dealing with SjS.
Dose anyone know because this rheumy also told me that my blood tests may improve and with any luck it might just all go away?
I am not feeling that way because I know that I have gotten much worse over the last 3 years also dose this condition slowly get worse like what I am experiencing?
I would also like to know if anyone knows of a good SJS Rheumy in Brisbane?
Thankyou for taking the time.
G'day smallfry!
Welcome to Team Sjogren's.
Surely you will find everything you need here, one way or another.
This is a loving supportive place where we help each other when we can, try to raise spirits, and vent our frustrations and fears when we must.
I look forward to many more postings from "the land down under".
Hugs
Elaine
Sorry but doesn't sound like your Rheumy is very knowledgeable about Sjogrens. You'll find a heck of a lot of folks on this board in their 50s. If you have a goot rappor with your gp ie regular dr, talk to him/her about this and ask for a referral to another doctor.
I got diagnosed by an immunologist and I've gotten more info/help from him than my rheumy. I finally after 6 years went to a teaching/research hospital here in Iowa and am happy with them there. Might be an idea for you!!
As to blood tests: My ANA, SS-A and SS-B were soo high there was no doubt I had Sjogrens. Has your rheumy done any of these tests? I'd almost swear I've had every blood test under the sun but they always manage tofind a new one. LOL.
Honestly, if you don't feel confident with your rheumy, see about going to a different one. Some are good and some are not. Believe me, we ALL have been through the specialist runarounds trying to get a diagnosis. Good Luck!
Hi Smallfry
Sounds like time for a new rheumy. This one has got it all the wrong way round - Sjogren's is most common in women over 40; blood results usually show that the disease is progressing, although the speed varies from person to person; you can go into remission but it won't ever just 'go away'.
I'm in the UK so I'm afraid I don't know anything about doctors in Brisbane. We do have other Aussie Sjoggies so maybe one of them will be along soon with some ideas.
Visit often and ask all your questions. We'll always try to help.
Take care - Chickpea
Hi Smallfry...
Just want to add my welcome to you....I hope that you are able to find a good rheumy who will be able to help you out a little more than the first one!
Also hope you enjoy coming to Sjogrens World and are able to get all the information, friendship, and support you want/need!
What can I say two days ago I was feeling very much alone with a very heavy weight on my shoulders
I just cannot stop reading all of the posts I didn't realise that there was so much information and so much wonderful support
I can't thank you all enough.
You all have inspired me to do something about my Dr and yes Pisces24 I will be looking at seeing an immunologist again thankyou.
Smallfry