MY sister, has had advancing peripheral neuropathy for 5 months, had numerous blood tests, EMG, MRI of lumbar spine,etc. A neuromuscular Dr this week says he thinks it is Sjogrens. She had put my history down on her form. I have had symptoms and being treated for a year. Does anyone know how common this is in families. I know it is genetic but curious if any of you have siblings with it?? Her presentation is quite different from my first symptoms, as everyone is different, but I did have some neuropathy the first 6-9 months, but none since being on Plaquenil for over a year now. Thanks, I have been so stable, I have not been on here in a long time. Praise God!! Do have some fatigue and depression at times. Thanks to everyone, this site is the best. It has helped me so much. Linda
Welcome back Flash. Good to hear you are having a better life with Plaquenil. Sorry your sister is developing this disease.
I don't think my rheumy said this is genetic but things change over the years. Research could have found something.
Take care and I hope both you and your sister stay well.
Pooh
There are many in my family with AI problems but I am the only one with SJS. Nearly all my siblings have allergies and osteo arthritis. Two have diabetes as did my Dad. I have an aunt and brother with asthma as does my daughter. Both my daughter and son have insulin resistant issues. So we have at least three generations of AI problems. I think once you are pre-disposed to it is a roll of the dice as to which auto immune disease you will end up with. My poor children have both diabetes and asthma on both my side and my husband's side of the family. No wonder they both have insulin resistant issues and allergy/asthma problems at such a young age.
Here is a story of a lady who has Sjogren's and her sister did too. Don't know how common this is.
http://www.lynne-sjogrens.org/DorothyEFrame1Source1.htm
I'm so sorry your sister is showing symptoms of Sjogren's. I wouldn't wish this condition on my worst enemy. But since you responded so well to the Plaquenil, she probably will too.
Sue
Linda,
So far neither of my siblings has Sjogren's, but my mother had it. I wish the best for both you and your sister.
Cheryl