Test Results
I have recently been experiencing arthritis and weakness in my hand. So I went to the doctor and she ordered labs to see if it was RA. The results came back negative for RA, but she wanted me to schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist because it could be lupus. That was it. But i cant get into one for 3 months! I obtained my lab results. My PCNA is 1/320 and my ANA is positive. Does this mean I have lupus???? Oh, I forgot to mention my sister died at 56 and she had severe lupus. I'm 61. I'm freaking out a little here.
First, I am so sorry for the delay in responding to your post,
. I don't blame you one bit for freaking out, especially with your family history! I can't say for sure if you have Lupus, as we cannot provide medical diagnoses, for your safety. However, an elevated ANA is an indication that something is going on in your body that should be addressed. Here's some information on the criteria used to diagnose Lupus -- https://lupus.net/diagnostic-criteria. And here's some more in depth information on the whole range of tests taken into consideration when diagnosing Lupus -- https://nyulangone.org/conditions/systemic-lupus-erythematosus/diagnosis. I do hope you are able to get in much quicker than 3 months from now. I bet you already know this, but I always suggest that people ask to be put on the cancellation list at the doctor's office, so when they have a cancellation, they can call people on that list to get that now vacant appointment slot filled. It's worked for a number of people I know.
Did your doctor have any suggestions to help you get through the next few months? As in, any medications to try or other suggestions?
Best, Erin, Team Member.
I feel the same way to be honest... My mom passed at 70 from lupus and all my numbers show positive... still having more tests done and getting into the RA but everything is pointing to SLE. Im in recovery and the meds scare me the most... thats a road I never want to go down again in my life but I know that pain is going to get bad enough some days so that discussion will be had with all my dr.s. I have 6 kids and 5 grandbabies.... I don't want to go anywhere any time soon. This whole diagnosis scares me because there is so much to it. Ive been in a flare for a while now and too scared to go to the ER because of the stigma behind recovery and sometimes I get treated horribly even through I am very open and honest and asking not to get pain meds. Its bad... Wish you the best of luck on the Lupus rollercoaster journey we are on.
,
Thank you for chiming in and sharing your perspective.
I admire your approach and honesty to pain meds.
Juggling the pain of a flare, a possible diagnosis along with 6 kids can certainly be overwhelming. Please know this community is here for help and support.
Sending positive thoughts for some much-needed relief, Doreen (Team Member)
Rollercoaster is the exact term for all of us for sure. Gentle hugs to you. I hope you find some relief soon. It can be so scary so I am holding space for you to find ways to calm your nerves. ~Racquel~ Team Member
I'm so sorry you've had some issues. It takes so many different tests and symptoms and criteria to get a firm diagnosis. Unfortunately from lab tests alone no one could say. Also , since I am not a doctor I couldn't say. I hope you can get into the doctor's soon. I keep calling until they have a cancellation and can squeeze me in. I know it's scary to wait and not know. Take it one moment at a time. Did your doctor prescribe anything for the muscle weakness?
~Racquel~ Team Member
