Looking for help

[Cindy_B]

Can anyone tell me what this might mean, or where to turn for information?  Positive ANA - 1: 2560; Sed Rate normal; Rheumatoid Factor normal.  CRP elevated too.  

Every joint in my body hurts, started in July, out of the blue.  40 mg Prednisone per day helps a lot, but ANA unchanged, and aches all return by late evening.  I also have Crohn's disease, which is in remission.  I had taken Humira for 8-9 mos for the Crohn's, Dr stopped me when all of these joint problems started as precaution, and referred me to a Rheumatologist.  Rheumatoligist has started me on Methotrexate now, don't know that it's helping yet, but Dr hasn't given any kind of diagnosis.

Any info is appreciated.

[PlateletGal]

Has the rheumatologist ordered additional lab tests on you to rule out lupus and other autoimmune diseases ?

[Cindy_B]

The Rheumatologist also had X-rays taken of every joint, but I didn't see the report.  He said it showed inflammation.  What other types of tests should be ordered to rule-in or rule-out Lupus or other such diseases?  I have to get blood work done every 4 wks on the Methotrexate, but I am not scheduled to see the Rheumatologist again until mid January.  It seems very difficult to get appts, I waited 1-2 months to see him the first time in Sept.

[PlateletGal]

Here are some lab tests that you may want to ask your physician about. They are often ordered to help diagnose lupus:

Anti-Cardiolipin (Anti-Phospholipid)
Anti-DNA
Anti-Ro/SS-A
Anti-Sm antibodies  
Complement studies  
Rheumatoid Factor

[Soonerman]

Since you have diagnosed Crohn's, the test results really don't tell you much more than you should already know.  Crohn's is an autoimmune disease, thus the positive ANA.  Eleveated CRP = Inflammation, Crohn's causes inflammation.  Something you may look into is food allergies, as some believe crohn's is linked to food allergies.  

[PlateletGal]

Have you had your vitamin D level tested and a DEXA scan recently ? A low vitamin D level is often associated with autoimmune conditions.

[Cindy_B]

Thanks for the comments...My Crohn's is currently in remission, so I think the inflammation is not intestinal.  I checked the standing order they gave me for bloodwork, all of the items you mention are included.  I go for the 1st bloodwork next week, and will post the results.  I've not had any vitamin D levels tested or DEXA  scan...I'll definitely ask now.  Thanks so much for the suggestions, it's so hard not to know anything.

[rippley]

hi,
I am similar Crohn's for 12 yrs but in remission after surgery 5 yrs ago. For 13 months now I have had joint/muscle aches, sore eyes, fatigue/weak, sore throat and many others.
Was given steriods but not helped, so off them now. It's mad I have seen so many docs and tests. esr, crp and fbc all normal

[PlateletGal]

You guys may want to check out the Marshall Protocol. For more information, google, "Amy Proal" + "Understanding Chronic Disease". I know the MP has successfully treated patients with autoimmune conditions and especially those people who have overlapping conditions. It is a fairly new research protocol, but the medications are not research (antibiotics + Benicar). I'm currently on it.

All the best...

PlateletGal