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MedHelp Member's Question

RA verses FMS verses Lupus

by ammaof3, Jul 12, 2008 12:01AM
I get really confused about what is really my problem.  I have been diagnosed with RA, FMS, COPD and now Lupus is thrown into the equation.  I really have a messed up autoimmune system; connective tissue disorder.  I have a host of other problems, but get really upset with all the medication when I really don't even know what I am taking all of this for; which diagnosed disease; symptom.  My daughter was diagnosed with Lupus and Sclerderma when she was 11, (now 35) and my mother was diagnosed with RA at 68, FMS at 72 and Parkinsons at 76.  Is there any connection to CTD and Parkinsons Disease?
Member Comments (3)

by txsilver, Jul 12, 2008 05:13PM
To: ammaof3
I am sorry you are having trouble getting diagnosed.  Rheumatic diseases do seem to run in families.  My great aunt had lupus, my cousin has RA and I started at FMS then scleroderma was suspected and they finally settled on RA and AS.  
A cursory search of the web did not reveal a relation between CTD and Parkinson's but you might jump over and pose this to a physician in the "Ask a Doctor" forum.

by ammaof3, Jul 13, 2008 10:01AM
To: txsilver
Thanks for your input.  It is a problem not only because of the anxiety, discomfort but the medication too.  Seems alot of guessing is going on.  

by txsilver, Jul 13, 2008 04:43PM
To: ammaof3
I know exactly what you mean.  The diagnosis process can be long and frustrating.  Do not be afraid to change Rheummys if you need to.  It is important that you have a good relationship with your doctor so that you can partner on your treatment.  One of my favorite doctors asked me if I thought I had scleroderma, I said no and she said she didn't think so either but that she liked to get a patient's input.  I loved that.  My current rheummy always listens to me and has a big sign in his waiting room advising that if you are not willing to wait over 2 hours to see him to change doctors.  He takes the time necessary with each patient and works in anyone in desperate need of seeing him.  So far, I have not had to wait that long but it is wonderful to have a doctor who places a value on patients needs.
Please let us know how you are doing and we will help you in any way we can.
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