Hello. I just found out about this group and have a lot to share about Lupus. I am 54 years old and have been dealing with Lupus Nephritis for the past 5 years. I have undergone a lot of medication and treatment that is now headed in a positive direction. I hope to help others.
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What symptoms did you have before you found out it was Lupus?
My joints would lock in place, especially the elbow. Then I developed cold sensitivity in my hands. It was diagnosed as Raynaud's Phenomenon, lupus related. My doctor noticed high protein levels in my urine, but I never took these seriously. I was in my 40s, a very active runner, and feeling great. I was in denial that anything could happen to me.
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@goodmother Sorry, I had more to add… 5 years ago, I went on a cruise and noticed swelling in my ankles and feet. I just guessed that I had too much salt in my diet with all the extra food. When I returned home, I continued to swell up in other areas of my body. My knees, fingers, stomche, etc. It took 2 months for my doctor to diagnose that I had lupus nephritis. I was very concerned as I gained about 50 lbs of water weight and I was not myself. I could barely get off the couch.
My doctor hasn't been able to figure out what's wrong with me. I have an appointment today and he has mentioned lupus. My body is always in pain. My hands the most. My feet would get swollen but haven't lately. They tested me for rheumatoid arthritis because that runs in the family but no signs of it when my results came back. My extremities are always cold. My feet are always frozen. I'm so worried that the Dr won't find the problem until it's almost too late.