what could these symptoms mean?

Question

- protein in my urine (spotted in my last 2 urine samples)
- pleurisy
- rashes/ hives on chest, back, arms, and face (come and go randomly)
- photosensitivity
- weight gain
- muscle pain
- knee pain/ inflammation
- fatigue
- easy bruising
- frequent urination
- constipation
- difficulty sleeping & staying asleep


I've done reasearch and had blood tests done. I was tested for a blood clot for my knee (negative). So I was told I had tendonitis, and it's now been about 4 years and it's only gotten worse. I was treated for scabies for the rashes, and it didn't work, so it's not that. I had a test done for hypothyroidism (came back negative), and my complete blood count came back "normal". My mother thought it might be Lupus but that seems kinda far out. I feel like I'm this hypochonriac and no one is taking me serious anymore. But I KNOW there is something wrong. Anyone have any ideas that I can bring up with my doctor tomorrow?

I should have mentioned I'm 18, and I have already thought about it being an allergic reaction. But I've tried changing all my shampoos, soaps, etc... and I haven't been eating anything differently lately. I'm also not on any current medications.

Answer 1

It could very well be lupus because your symptoms fit the typical symptoms of that disease. Lupus is an autoimmune disease affecting mostly women and causing various effects throughout different parts of the body. Its severity can range from very mild to extremely serious depending on which body organs are afflicted.

Lupus is difficult to diagnose and often misdiagnosed unless there is a characteristic symptom such as the butterfly-shaped rash over the cheeks. There is no single definitive blood test for lupus and doctors have to make the diagnosis based on a variety of symptoms and diagnostic tests. Lupus is one of a group of conditions with vague symptoms such as fatigue or malaise, and may need to be distinguished from fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, Type 2 diabetes, depression, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis, or various other conditions. If the main symptoms are joint symptoms, then various other causes of arthritis need to be considered. (Source: WD Writers)

Lupus (also called systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE) is a disorder of the immune system which normally functions to protect the body against invading infections and cancers. In lupus, the immune system is over-active and produces increased amounts of abnormal antibodies that attack the patient's own tissues. Lupus can affect many parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, heart, nervous system, and blood vessels. The signs and symptoms of lupus differ from person to person, and the disease can range from mild to life-threatening. (Source: excerpt from NINDS Neurological Sequelae Of Lupus Information Page: NINDS)
Obviously you need to get a professional diagnosis. Go back to the doctor and this time inquire about lupus.

Answer 2

Definetly demand to be tested for lupus.Also your symptoms go with fibromyalgia and also chronic fatigue syndrome...both of which are hard to diagnose and lupus is ruled out. I know how rough all that can be...I have chronic fatigue and thought I was going insane before I finally got diagnosed at 15. The one thing you have I didn't though was the protein in the urine and if I'm not mistaken that is a big indicator for lupus. Good luck with your appt and don't let them dismiss you. You are feeling sick and so there's something wrong and they need to take you seriously. Don't leave til the lupus test is ordered!

Answer 3

Sounds to me like an allergic reaction. Maybe to a food youre eating or maybe soap you wash your clothes in may even be a medication youre taking. Anemia might be causing alot of these symptoms as well. Another thing could be pets dander if you have any, dogs or cats, etc.
I hope this helps.

Answer 4

I am not quite sure, but ask him to test you to see if your own antibodies are attacking your body. Is the rash purple in color and do you get frequent upper respiratory infections? I dont know the name of it but I have heard that your own bodys antibodies attack your bodys cells causeing caoius. Have the dr check for that. i hope they find out what is going on, never give up go to as many dr as you can. Also you know when something is wrong with your body the dr. dont. dont give up!

Answer 5

Protein in urine can be a sign of lupus. That led to my mother-in-law's diagnosis.

Answer 6

Gosh, sounds like menopause. Bring your list and good luck to you.