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Posted 9/26/2008 3:42 PM (GMT 0)
I've always been a tired person, but at 28 years old I could hardly function. I was still working, but couldn't drive my car, because I couldn't stay awake. I felt awful, like I was walking through thick air. I was not functioning. Finally after several months of blood work, etc, I was diagnosed with Hashimotos Thyroiditis, Pernicious Anemia and several months later UCTD. I'm on a several vitamins and B-12 shots once a month for the Pernicious Anemia. My doctor did prescribe Plaquenil, but I don't take it. I just turned 31 and I do feel much better, however, I still don't feel great. I often feel off. My AST levels (liver enzymes) are always high. I'm 2 1/2 months postpartum and for the first time ever my ANA is negative, which I don't understand how that is possible? Before My ANA was 1:320 and I had a Nucleolar pattern. I get aches and pains here and there, but nothing too terrible, I'm used to it at this point. What has started to happen now is that I have a numb spot on the left side of my back and my right pinky and ring finger are tingly. I've been to a neurologist and my rhematologist. They have checked me for MS and so far I'm fine. They are doing blood work to see what it could be. I just feel off. I'm always tired. I don't know if that's from taking care of a new baby or something else is happening.

Does anyone have any ideas or suggestions from wha I have written? Thanks for any help you can give.
Posted 9/26/2008 6:45 PM (GMT 0)
ANA levels can fluctuate from day to day and even hour to hour as well as lab to lab. It really isn't the best way to gauge anything. That said I would suggest taking the plaquenil it is safe and effective for milder cases and does wonders for aches, pains, and fatigue. I would also consider anti-inflammatories as inflammation causes fatigue and general feeling of being unwell. I had a baby 4 1/2 months ago and I went into a massive flare in early August. I am in bad shape. Look for my recent post. My rheumy said hormonal fluctuations post partum can cause serious flare issues.
Posted 9/26/2008 9:41 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Steph,

 

Your Hashimotos could be the culprit here.  I know there are a few members with Hashi's who will offer some advice too.  Thyroid conditions can mimick lupus.  Your anemia could definitely be part of the problem too.

 

Redrose gave you excellent information.  Your ANA can change at the drop of a hat.  It's not a reliable indicator of what's going on.  Mine has gone from positive to negative and back and forth constantly.  Don't rely on it at all to tell you what your body is doing.

 

I would make sure your thyroid is functioning properly, and definitely get started on that plaquenil. It can take up to 6 months to kick in. The sooner you're on it the better.

 

Good luck,

Ginny

 

 

Posted 9/27/2008 7:59 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Steph,

I agree with Ginny and redrose of all they offered you. Don't be afraid of the plaquenil, it can be extremely helpful with the fatigue and the blah feeling. Are you taking anything for your thyroid? If not, you should be, ask your doctor about it. When my thyroid acts up I get really tired.

I hope you feel better soon. (((hugs)))
Posted 9/28/2008 1:59 AM (GMT 0)
Steph, one reason to take Plaquenil is to try to halt your disease before it worsens. I hope you'll consider taking it. It has been so helpful for me.

Goo luck,

Pat
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