U Penn appt

[Lost163]

So I saw Dr. shahane at U Penn. I brought all my labs , ct scans, echocardiogram.  I thought she would re-do some tests but because they were done in last month she did not. She said it is definitely sgjrogens. The main reason I went to her was my Pulmonologist felt my dropping oxygen level was due to AI. She said that she could not say either way. She plans to consult with Pulmonologist and will recommend a trial of prednisone to see if that helps with oxygen level then she will transition me to an immunosuppressive. Sitting in her office my pulse oxygen was 90. She did say that I need to continue oxygen therapy. I see the Pulmonologist on Friday-I'm hoping that by then I will have a treatment. She was concerned about my family history of lymphoma and stressed the importance of follow up blood work that would screen for that. My brother had lymphoma twice and two maternal aunts died from lymphoma. She asked if my brother had sjgrogens. He definitely has dry eye issues. She agreed to continue following me.  I go back in October. Thanks for all the support.

[Jasper]

It sounds like you have found a good Rheumatologist. It also sounds like you will receive appropriate follow-up,  appropriate referrals, and treatment for your conditions. I hope you see an improvement in your condition soon.

[Dolly Dimples]

Nice to hear that Doctor was so concerned and thorough with you.
    Hope you make better progress now, and do let us know how it goes ,
                                   Best of luck, Dolly

[Carolina]

Dear Lost163,

A good doctor doesn't insist on rerunning recent tests.

A good doctor says, I don't know everything about everything.

A good doctor refers you out to specialists in areas that aren't her own.

A good doctor listens to you and to your family history.

Sounds like you have a good doctor.

Keep us posted.  I'm sure your family history creates an emotional and personal experience burden.

You are not fated to have everything everyone in your family has had. 

Sometimes it seems like it....but......

Relax, take deep breaths.

Take care of yourself.

Hugs,  Elaine

[finallyadx]

Lost-congrats on finding a good dr.  I would agree with Elaine - sounds like you have yourself a gem. 

I hope the prednisone continues to help and that the immunosuppressive you are put on thereafter helps with your symptoms.

Keep us posted.

In the meantime, sending positive thoughts your way.

Kim