Great Doctors and the continued Thickening Plot

[RedFlame]

I had my appointment with the Rheumatologist yesterday.  My PCP had referred me to look into Sjogrens because of my chronic Parotid gland swelling and other things.  

He performed the Schirmer test.  That test is placing two strips of paper in each eye and then having the patient close their eyes.  Normal is greater or equal to 15 millimeters and mine was 1, but of course there are other criteria.  

He sent me over for an x-ray because he was suspicious of Interstitial Lung Disease, something that I don’t even want to think about right now so I will deal with it later.  When I got in my car I began to cry a bit about that as I am out of breath much of the time.

I go back tomorrow morning for two biopsies.  One of the Aphthous ulcer that I have had now for 6 months and then he will biopsy the salivary glands.  He was quite concerned about these and didn’t even want to wait until Friday for the biopsies.  Quix has been very direct and firm in her concern about these things.  It has taken time, but finally a doctor is following through.  I was just so tired.   If only Quix could be our physician!

He ordered massive amounts of blood tests.  Ten vials of blood were taken for a host of things I didn’t recognize. He even ordered an HIV test, he asked if he could ---it’s highly unlikely.  

After the biopsies I go to see the neuro-opthalmologist assuming I can make it through the snow.
Thanks to all for all the support you have given.  You are the best!

Red

[figuerpa]

Wow Red, I am so glad that doctors are taking you serious and trying to get to the bottom of what ever is going on with you.

You have had one heck of a journey and I know you are going ot get answers you deserve. I can't believe all the problems you have had and you are still fighting all this. You are a strong person and you will get to the bottom of this and get the right meds that will make you feel better.

Take Care,
Paula