specialist?

[Lorelaide]

Hi.  I’m hoping someone can give me some advice.  I have been experiencing several uncomfortable symptoms for about 12 years now and I’m wondering what specialist I should see.  Here is a list of my symptoms (may or may not be related to one another):

Asymmetrical joint pain (shoulders, knees, ankles, wrists, hips…all sporadic)
Irritability
Increased anxiety/anxiety attacks
Increased sweating/blushing

I have had two pregnancies over the past three years and have been breastfeeding for over two years.  The joint pain got worse after my second pregnancy.  The anxiety got worse after my pregnancies and the blushing/sweating started during my first pregnancy.  

I was diagnosed by an Immunologist with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome three years ago.  I started Pilates, which seemed to help my joints.  I am having trouble believing this diagnosis, however.  I tested negative for RA three years ago.  My weight has been up and down, due to pregnancies.  I am at a healthy weight now, but I feel like it takes quite a bit of effort to stay here.

I don’t know what type of specialist I should see.  I'm not even really sure where to post this question.

Thank you very much for any insight!

[Lorelaide]

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply.  I think you're right about the hormones.  I just went in for a blood draw yesterday to check my progesterone, estrogen, thyroid, and RA factor (for a 2nd time).  Hopefully I will get some (non-frightening) answers soon.  

Take care:)

[carolanivey]

Pregnancy can wreak havoc on your hormone balance, which could account for the joint pain. Estrogen softens ligaments and tendons in preparation for childbirth - it allowed the baby to pass through the pelvis easier. After two pregnancies in a pretty short time, it could be hour hormones are out of whack and causing menopausal type symptoms: hot flushes, sweats, irritability, difficult weight loss, etc. An endocrinologist might be the specialist to ask for.

Also, it isn't unusual to test negative for RA and still have all the symptoms, so I would insist on a repeat test and a referral to a rheumatologist for a repeat blood test and treatment, no matter what the results are. A blood test is only one tool in diagnosis, not THE definitive test for whether you have it or not. Good luck!