Introducing myself

[Bels]

Hi Everyone!
I'm Bels. I was recently diagnosed with Sjogrens a few weeks ago. I have had the symptoms for 8 years though. They were always attributed to something else.  I was diagnosed by a neurologist who thinks I have at least one other autoimmune disease so I see a rheumatologist on July 7. I'm really looking forward to finding out what else I have so I can begin the work of healing. I used work as an RN, on a rehab unit and hospice. I miss it very much. I have a wonderful family and that helps! I'm married to my high school sweetheart, 25 years now. We have two children; a son who is 23 and a daughter who is 20. They are the joys of my life.

I have had a lot of health issues for the past 10 years. I had a fusion of C4-C7 vertebrae, numerous bulging and herniated discs, ovarian cancer and the Sjogrens. All this has left me feeling different and isolated. I'm hoping to find some kindred spirits on this site. My family is wonderful and I have some good friends but none of them can truly understand.

In general, I am a very positive person. I think our state of mind has a great deal to do with how we view the world and how we deal with the hard times. I'm looking forward to getting to know the people of this forum and hope we can help each other deal with whatever life throws our way!!:)

[Joe S.]

Welcome Bels, to the forum. When you go see your doctor bring an advocate with you. Some of us have posted what we are taking in our signatures. I have had to find alternative treatments. Before trying anything new do your own research. Check for counter indications and side effects.

[Bucky]

In general, I am a very positive person. I think our state of mind has a great deal to do with how we view the world and how we deal with the hard times. I'm looking forward to getting to know the people of this forum and hope we can help each other deal with whatever life throws our way!!:)

Hi Bels - welcome to Sjogren's World.

I totally agree with the above statement you made.  That is my philosophy too.   

We're a worldwide forum made up of both women (90%) and men (10%) - we range in age from 5 - 80's years old.

Some, like you, are just now getting their diagnose after years and years of strange, unanswered symptoms.  Others, have had Sjogren's for many years.  No two members have the same exact symptoms, physical affects, degrees of Sjogren's - however, we are all on the same Sjogren's road.  The goal of this forum is to help support each other in our journey.

Sure, there are posts here asking questions, making comments, etc. - but, there is also a Social Board where we talk about non-related Sjogren's stuff.  Recipes, vacations, weddings, flowers/gardens, babies, jokes, etc.

There is a lot of information here on this site - I hope you find it helpful to you on your Sjogren's journey.

If there is a particular topic/subject you are interested in - if you put that word(s) in the search box to the top left of this page it will take you to previous threads about it.

We can't diagnose anyone here on this site, just offer suggestions of things that help us (all based on personal preference).  With that being said, we have quite a few nurses here on this forum who suffer with Sjogren's.  They have been so helpful explaining questions members have had about different medicines, treatments and such.

Not only do we have these message boards, but we also have a live chat on various nights throughout the week.  You can find our schedule on the links at the top of this page.

Again, welcome.

Bucky

[Pisces24]

Welcome to the group.   I think most of us here really had Sjogrens for many years before it got diagnosed. You either just put up with it until you can't anymore or your doctor gets concerned.

My gp got concerned about my wacky blood #s and numerous sinus/throat infections. He has a different attitude toward "specialists" now as he sent me to one after another for 6 years until I finally got diagnosed at a teaching / research hospital here in Iowa.   Thankfully SJS had been nice to me so far compared to many here. I have wacky blood work, dry mouth so lotsa cavities, dry sinuses I alleviate with sinus flushes, some fatigue and some spots on my lungs the pulmonologist is watching. I am taking nothing for it at the present except Vitamin D.

You are sooo lucky you have family that are supportive. Many of us here either don't have families or the ones we have just "don't get it".   Sounds like you have a good attitude about all this which helps a lot. Good Luck with your Rheumy!

[Scottietottie]

Hi Bels 

Welcome to sjogren's world.

I hope you find the site useful.

Take care - Scottie 

[Patze]

Hi Bels,

Let me also welcome you to the SJS World and family! Look around in the ethers as there are tons of topics that just might interest you (the search engine is located on the upper left hand side of this page).  If you can't find what you're looking for, don't be shy and ask away as there is usually someone about that might be able to help.

Take care of yourself -

Patze

[Meld256]

Hi Bels,

Welcome to the forum!   

Many of us can relate to your experience of having health issues for years and them being attributed to something else. You are exactly right in that now that you know what you're dealing with, it gives you power.  Keep us updated on that next appt. please.

Your positive outlook and support of your family will do you well.  You'll also find loads of information here and friendly, helpful people.  Feel free to ask anything at any time, or join in a discussion.

Looking forward to hearing more from you.
Take care,
Melinda

[Katybarstool]

Hi Bels

Welcome from me too. I've not been around much recently, so forgive me for the late welcome.

Kathyx