Developing Lupus?
My wife has had many odd issues over the last 20+ years. Always going to the doctor and getting referred to a specialist and never finding anything wrong. Then Her sister passed away two months ago from Lupus. I didn't know what it was, so I started researching it and we both came to the conclusion this doesn't look good. So she went to a doctor and she said she didn't think it was Lupus, then ordered a bunch of tests. My wife visited the doctor today and was told she is developing Lupus, but not to worry she doesn't have it.
So we live in Korea, my wife is from the Philippines, I didn't go with her because of work. So I want to understand this a little better so I can go back and ask specific question and figure this out and avoid lost in translation. Thanks Duder
Hmmm,
. I can't offer medical advice, for your wife's safety, but she may want to seek a second opinion, if at all possible. I am not sure why the doctor wouldn't want to be a bit more proactive about treating your wife's condition. All autoimmune conditions (of which Lupus is one) should be monitored and treated. Now, how to treat Lupus can vary, but I don't think I would suggest just letting nature take its course, either. Did the doctor suggest any treatment for your wife?
I would definitely ask the doctor about treatment and about what your wife's test results said, in detail. Here's some information about the importance of monitoring Lupus -- https://lupus.net/testing-diagnosis. And here's some information on various treatment options for Lupus -- https://lupus.net/treatment. The severity of Lupus can vary widely, so some people are able to manage their lupus with lifestyle changes, while others may require medications.
So, again, I would definitely ask to see those test results and to find out what course of action, treatment wise, the doctor is suggesting.
Best, Erin, Team Member.So from what I understand the doctor said this is low level, not Lupus yet, using a check list of symptoms and a blood test. But she asked my wife to come back for another blood test in a month. My guess is to look for change? The problem is working though a translator, then my wife is not super good with English either. So there could be more details I just don't know.
I am relieved in a way to go from many problems for 20 years to know whats wrong almost over night.
She was given Meds Celebrex, Rabeprazole, Methylon and Haloxin .
I guess its a work in progress, I did some reading to try and understand what it all means. I wanted to post here and share the info so I don't miss anything.
Thanks for the reply!, thanks for going into more detail. And, it sounds like you've done some research and are feeling a bit more confident about how to proceed. Two of the medications she was prescribed are frequently used to treat Lupus and other autoimmune conditions, so it does seem like the doctor she saw is taking her symptoms seriously, so that's good.
I am glad you will have this record to reflect back on in the future!
Best, Erin, Team Member.
Today I was finally able to get the test results from the hospital. Our appointment was maybe 2 or 3 minutes with the doctor , but I was able to get the test results on my way out.
So there is something on the last page of the first test August 27th has something that looks like a grand total at the bottom of the page Ig G 1677 in red.
One month later the second test shows Ig G 1585
What does this mean?
My wife still has a lot of annoying pain.
She did get a prescription too.
Thanks...
Alan
,
I love to hear how you are doing all you can to support your wife.
Getting the test results and searching for answers is a huge step.
As Erin mentioned, unfortunately, we cannot offer medical advice (nor interpret test results) over the internet for your wife's safety. I would certainly reach out to her doctor/healthcare team with your questions and concerns.
I wish you both all the best, Doreen (Team Member)
One of my problems is working with non native English speakers. It seems with the doctor we are seeing, something is not getting through. She didn't think my wife had Lupus, then after the testing said very minor maybe 1%. My wife has pain every day from multiple sources. So what is minor and what is serious?
I am concerned because her sister died from it and was 5 years younger.
I set up another appointment at a different hospital for Wednesdays, but I would like to understand what I should be asking or telling them.
I am not sure if I should quit my job and go home so she can relax more maybe. I guess everyone has to stumble through this.
Thanks for the replies!
Alan
