Heather,

i'm sorry to hear you've been feeling so poorly. I would be surprised if you get a diagnosis on the first visit -- unless your case is highly unusual. Most folks go through years of tests and waiting before a definitive diagnosis is made.

The good thing is that most good rheumatologists will treat your symptoms until a diagnosis is determined. Here's hoping you have a good one!

Hugs,

~lauren

I am so frustrated with my doctors. I have been to so many doctors and I am no closer to a diagosis. I've had 2 pheumatoid profiles that have both been positive. My white blood count is very high and I feel like i've got the flu all the time. I have a reoccurring rash on my face, neck, and groin area. They did a biopsy and I am waiting for the results. Why can't they tell me if I have lupus or not? The rheumatologist has mentioned sjogrens disease and behcets syndrome but he can't give me a definite diagnosis of lupus or the other two mentioned diseases. I have constant fever, headaches and not to mention I have had unexplainable and uncontrollable seizures for 3 years now. As you can tell, I am so frustrated and confused. I did have one drug that helped my seizures but it lowered my platelet count so much that I had to be hospitalized for petechiae rash. I was a middle school teacher and had to retire due to my seizures and now I am confined to my home. I just want to feel better. Does anyone have any advise for me? I have not been started on any treatment yet except just topomax for my seizures and pain medication for my aches and pains of migraines and joint pains and of course, I am on antidepressants and anxiety meds and meds for mitral valve prolapse. Any encouraging words out there?