Help for a diagnosis
I’ve been dealing with Lupus like symptoms for just over two years with my most recent flare kicking off in September. I’ve seen doctors and I still don’t have an answer. My GP ordered an ANA and since that came up negative she refuses to investigate lupus any further. Has anyone had any experience with an early negative ANA? Did you end up being diagnosed with Lupus? I have many of the symptoms of lupus including visible signs such as butterfly rash and scleritis. I also get pain in my legs and arms, muscle twitches and spasms, low grade fever, frequent urination, hair loss, pericardial effusion, jaundice, iron deficiency that needed infusion. But worst of all is the unending and unbearable fatigue and brain fog.
Hi,
!
I am glad you reached out here. I don't want to second guess your GP, but you have every right to seek a second opinion or ask for a referral to a rheumatologist. Having a negative ANA does not necessarily mean you don't have Lupus or some other condition, especially based on the symptoms your are experiencing. This question comes up in this community from time to time and I wanted to share a conversation on negative ANA that I thought you might find helpful -- https://lupus.net/forums/negative-ana?scroll=true. You have the right to have an accurate diagnosis, so don't be afraid to keep pushing for answers. After all, who knows your body better than you? You know something is wrong, so please don't let others deter you from getting the diagnosis (and treatment!) you need!
I hope this helps you know you are not alone in this.
Best, Erin, Lupus.net Team Member.
