I have dealt with supposed fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis for over 15 years. I was diagnosed with a heart arrhythmia about 2-3 years after FM diagnosis, extreme fatigue, had 2 surgical spinal fusions (2006/2008), basal joint arthroplasty (both thumbs), been on various medications with not much relief or relief for a very short time. I am now on high levels of arthritis medication, Cymbalta, Lunesta, Toprol XL for my arrhythmia, Elmiron & Sanctura for interstitial cystitis, a sudden increase in my cholesterol and now take Crestor, narcotic pain meds for pain. I have nausea from the meds, had surgery for hiatal hernia and GERD. I have had various tests for symptoms that come and go. I have been tested for RA, MS, Lupus...
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Thanks for all your help. I have had all my medical records to the doctor at University of VA for review and she has contacted me and I have an appointment with her in August. I was told by her staff member that after she looked over my file she would decide if she felt it would be something she could help me with. I am excited that maybe it's possible someone is listening to me.
June 21, 2012 - 8:10amThis Comment
Susan,
May 11, 2012 - 12:15pmThanks so much for the information you've shared thus far.
I have seen about 4 rheumatologist over the past 17 years for my FM and just get the same standard answer from them. When I express to them the pain I have in spite of all the meds I have tried I have been told that I need to just accept what I have and treat the symptoms. When I question the joint damage I have already seen, I am told that it's not RA but just osteoarthritis.
I guess my question is, after all that is it a legitimate concern to proceed with the possibility that it could be something more, maybe even AS.
I joined the Spondylitis Association of America and just contacted a rheumatologist at UVA. My records are being sent to her to review. Should I also tell her what I want to know or just let her review everything?
Linda
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