All tests are back

Hi! So... I said I would update after my last test. The rheumatologist cleared me for now...other than an elevated ANA (1:160 speckled), all blood work is normal. I don't show muscle damage, inflammation or antibodies.

First neuro...ms specialist...ruled out her end, too. No MS, clear MRI, blood work is good. B12 is low-normal but MMA good. I started seeing these two in May...and had two car accidents in a week (plus the tremors started to get really bad).

Second neuro...neuro-muscular expert...said they already did the blood work he would do. He suggested a nerve test and that came out normal. He said, of course, there is nothing to compare it to. We ruled out major nerve/muscle disease.

Next is a skin biopsy to check for small fiber neuropathy (which I've read has a connection to Fibro). If that is normal, he is clearing me too.

I guess at that point I'm given a clean bill of heath, eh? ;)

I'm contemplating seeing an endocrinologist next, just in case. Or...we can just call this Fibro for now and see what develops?

(Symptoms: tingling, numbness, extreme muscle fatigue, exercise intolerance, cold sensitivity, heat sensitivity, skin hurts, aching throughout body...esp in arms/shoulders, chest/ribcage pain, foot pain. Classic symptoms. Can't grocery shop, do dishes, fold laundry...driving requires alot of concentration).

I really miss swimming and running. Alot. :(

See an endo if you like, and can afford it. If it will make you feel you have done everything, it's worth it.

True, you cannot do what you are used to doing. But you can (and should) start to build something back. Instead of running, take a long walk, and rest if you need to. Instead of swimming, do some water walking. Giving it up is not a way to make the rest of your life good (or until they find a medical way to combat this condition).

Sorry to be blunt. -smiley-

Now you know! It's always a positive first step.

At least you have some answers now. Your lucky to be in this age of diagnoses of fibro because years ago they would brush it off and say its in your head. Now it can be used for disability. I am so thankful for this forum because I have finally got a grip on managing it. I now know all my page full of symtoms are fibro instead of lupus or MS.

I hope you continue to be with us. This way we learn from each other and encourage each other. The best advice I have learned here is do things in moderation. Yes, you might not be able to do multiple swim laps, but you can continue to enjoy them. Remember to rest when needed and try not to feel guilty.