I went to see my doctor tonight and told her I think I have Sjorgrens. It has only been "mentioned" in the past that I might have it, but I would like to thank everyone who has shared their experiences here, as it has helped me piece together things for myself.
Since the 1990's I have been treated on separate occasions for dry eyes, dry mouth, IBS, suspected rheumatoid arthritis which was not confirmed by blood tests, severe tendonitis in both arms/wrists and various odd aches and pains :-\
In March this year I went to the GP as I had lost the feeling in my fingertips of my right hand, but I was wondering if this had happened following a fall from my horse where I hurt my neck. I now believe this is related to Sjogrens, although I have had nerve conduction tests recently and they said it was carpal tunnel (maybe I have that too!). I am almost pretty certain I have Raynaud's as I have never tolerated the cold - I can have goosebumps sitting on a Carribbean beach! Plus my fingers go blue at the slightest thing - just getting frozen peas out of the freezer drawer does it for me!
Anyway, thank you to all people who have written things here, as due to reading through your accounts I was able to say to my doctor today, that I think I have Sjogrens and that all these things are related. She agreed and has referred me to a rheumatologist. She said if I want to find a Sjogrens specialist in the UK, she will happily refer me, so I am off to google this, unless anyone can recommend? I am in the North West of England but prepared to travel to see someone who specialises.
So thank you to everyone - I realise I am not going mad after all! xx
Hi JG, I'm in Warrington and was referred very quickly to Dr Salih, Rheumatologist in Warrington. He is not particularly chatty but is seen as progressive in that he treats symptoms, not test results. Since 1st seeing him in Feb, I have seen him 3 more times, started plaquenil and amitryptiline, had steroid and cortisone injections, seen the podiatrist and am being referred to Occupational Health for wrist splints etc.
I can't say he is a personable man but the rheumatology nurses are really lovely and make you feel you can ask anything and spend as long as you need to. Let us know how you get on. Where do you live JG? xx Ailsa
Hi Ailsa, I'm near Wigan - so not far from you at all!
Could you PM me contact details for the doctor you are recommending? Does he specialise in Sjorgrens? Otherwise, my doctor will send me to Wrightington Hospital. Thanks.
Hi Jaygee,
So glad to hear that your doc is listening to you and willing to help you follow up on the sjogrens diagnosis...you are off to a great start! I Hope you get some answers soon!
Btw......isn't it great when you realize that you re not going mad??? (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-happy026.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org)
Hi Jaygee,
That is such great news! Lucky you, a doctor that is willing to work with you is a keeper!!!!!
Take care -
Patze (http://www.freesmileys.org/emoticons/emoticon-games-011.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org)