Another Newbie

[Jo Anne]

Hi Everyone,

My name is Jo Anne. I am 34 years old and was diagnosed with Sjogren's 4 years ago even though I had symptoms long before that. At my first appointment with my Reumatologist he diagnosed me based on my described symptoms and put me on methotrexate, folic acid, and had me come in often for vitamin B shots.  Everyone I spoke to scared me to death about being on methotrexate so I stopped going after a few appointments. Well, the problems have progressed and seriously interfere with the quality of my living and career. I went to my PCP and saw the nurse who ordered a bunch of blood tests.  She recommended I see an endocrinologist, ENT, and rheumatologist. I had already made an appt with an endocrinologist and a different rheumatologist before I saw her. I guess I'll see what other doctor's opinions are and what the blood shows. I was having a hard time believing that all of my health issues are symptomatic of Sjogrens so that is why there are so many blood tests. I hope to learn more about Sjogrens from this forum and what others are going through. At this point I am thinking that I should have stuck with my original rheumatologist and just taken the methotrexate. I look forward to your opinions on this.

Jo Anne 

[Bernice]

Hey JoAnn,

Welcome Home! Know that you are among friends who understand, though you did not specify what your issues are in detail I am sure that whatever ails you there will be a thread for it. SJS is a really weird disease with alot of crazy symptoms, things that you and even your doctor may have a hard time associating with SJS. Though we have to be careful not to dismiss everything as just another "gift" because all symptoms need to be reported to your doctor, but it helps to have other's prospective in how they cope with similar issues.

Plus we just have alot of fun just sharing too!

Look forward to getting to know ya!
Bernice

[Patze]

Hi Jo Anne,

Let me also welcome you to the SJS World!  You'll find tons of information here and oodles of great members to boot!

I'm glad that your doctor diagnosed based upon symptoms and if you're in the US, I can't tell you how rare that is.  A lot of folks get a diagnosis of SICCA instead, but hey, as long as you're being treated for your symptoms, what does it matter?

I notice that you speak of blood testing that you've recently had done, did you have blood work done with the original rheumy? 

Good luck with your new docs, and I'll keep the fingers crossed that you'll feel better soon.

Again, welcome and I hope to chat with you soon.

Take care -

Patze

[lynnmarie219]

Hi Jo Anne and welcome to Sjogrens World!


I'm glad that you found us and hope you find the information here helpful...read all you can and you will also find compassion, understanding, and friendship here along the way!

Good luck with your upcoming doctor appts.....I hope you have found some good docs...and if you aren't happy with them for some reason....you can always go find another. It is totally in our hands!

Let us know what the blood tests show.....and welcome to the family!