SED rate of 88

[tomandi]

I have had headaches for years.  Was diagnosed with Idiopathic Intracranial hypertension (2008), fibromyalgia (1985), and a host of other arthritic like ailments(1985).  My last opening pressure on lumbar puncture though was only 20(2009) so my neurologist put me on gabapentin, tinazidine, zonisamide, to treat the fibromyalgia as well as 5000 IU Vitamin D, and an iron supplement.  I had a blood test done last Friday and when I went to see my surgeon he said my sed rate was 88 , my vitamin D is deficient, and I am also anemic (8.3) and dropping regardless of what I do.  He has referred me to an internist whom I see on Monday.  In the meantime I am wondering what is going on, as I am at a loss and frustrated.  I've had doctors tell me everything from its all in my head to I have a "trace" of lupus.

Any tips you can give me would be greatly appreciated.

[karajo]

It could be possible that you have lupus.  Some of the common symptoms of lupus are facial rash or lesions, hair falling out, and joint pain (sometimes w/ swelling).  Most people w/ lupus have a positive ANA.  

Do you feel worse after you've been in the sun?  Like, maybe the day after or the third day after?  It would be good to spend time in the sun prior to getting your ANA checked.  If you have lupus it will cause an inflammatory response in your body and cause your ANA to jump up.  This will help with the long process of a dx of lupus and help get you on your way to getting some help. (That is, if you do have lupus)

If not, they need to find out where you are losing blood.  And why your body is not responding to the Vit D therapy.