Sjogren's Syndrome

[ddesaut2]

Hello, I am wondering if someone can help me figure this out.  I have been diagnosed with Sjogrens Syndrome for the past year.  I am on Plaquenil for this, and a different med that starts with "N", for Raynauds.  I have had a bone denisity test done, xrays etc., and none show arthritis.  One thing that I have been exprience for that past 1 1/2 weeks is that my nuckles in my fingers feel as if they are cramping and get alot of pain in my wrist as well as my hands.  They do get red and swell at the end of the day.  My blood work I am assuming has come back from my Rheumotologists office the same with nothing new,  merely because I have not heard from them.  I am wondering if someone can help me with this.  I also get cramping in my feet as well, and they too swell and get red at the end of the day.  I hope someone can give me an idea of what may be possibly going on.  Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you,.

[ddesaut2]

Thanks for the response.  I went to the Rheumotologist yesterday, and they are saying that it is Carpel Tunnel.  I am going with that, and taking anti-inflamitorrry cream.  I learned that I am not going to just settle with such answers.  I have had bone scans done, and xrays, both which does not show arthritis.  But they say that does not mean it is not there.  As it goes for Lupus, I know this can show at any time. My ANA is still VERY high, and I am always sick.  Bronchitis, twice in one month.  The plaquenil can not be raised for I am at the highest dose.  I have an appt to go over my blood work in June, so we will see.  Again, I thank you very much.

[TrudieC]

There are a number of things that could be causing your issues.  Plaquenil is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.  Just the fact that you are taking it can keep your blood from showing positive for these two things.  Don't assume tests are OK when you don't hear from a doctor.  Too many things get missed in this day and age.  Call and get a copy of the tests and insist on a follow up appointment to talk about your pain and swelling and to figure out next steps.  Even if  your bloodwork is negative you need to be regularly tested and a diagnosis can be made based on symptoms.