I went back to the rheumatologist.

Unfortunately I don’t really have any more answers.

I knew this might be the case going in.

Autoimmune problems can take a very long time to be diagnosed.

My labs showed markers for inflammation. However did not show markers for things like Lupus or Rheumatoid arthritis.

My x-rays showed my hands are OK but my hips show problems.

Given the information she had she told me I have inflammatory arthritis. We have some idea what’s going on but according to her we don’t have the icing on the cake yet.

I’m relieved in some ways…. having Lupus or RA does not sound like something I want. However I have something and I really don’t understand fully what.

She recommended that I start treatment. She prescribed me a medication called Plaquenil. That is the brand name for Hydroxychloroquine. It is an Immunosuppressive drug… it is also used for Malaria.

According to Rhemotology.org

Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). It can decrease the pain and swelling of arthritis which can prevent joint damage leading to long-term disability.

I needed to get the OK from my pediatrician because I’m still nursing. I need to see my eye doctor first because of the chance of problems. It’s rare but still important to be aware of.

One of the most common side effects is nausea and diarrhea. That scares me. Mr IBSD interferes with my life already. I’m honestly not sure how I will deal with it being worse.

This was the preferred course of treatment over other medications that address the immune system. It has a lower risk of me becoming ill from infection etc… so I guess it’s the way to go.

I am one to resist unnecessary treatment or treatments that are long term of I can try to address it with lifestyle first.

Things like more physical therapy and aquatic therapy were mentioned.

I am torn between calling and asking if I can address something else first…or if that was actually a good choice she would have recommended that.

My immunology/allergy Dr told me some patients will reduce pain by eliciting wheat and dairy. I’m working on wheat . I need to get allergy testing so I will ask if I need to be eating it still before the test.

I’m relieved to know it’s not all in my head. Sometimes I have wondered if maybe it was.

I’m slightly overwhelmed by the fact that this could be a lifelong problem.

So I’ve started the process.

I will be starting my medication afters my husband’s upcoming travel incase the side effects are hard on me.

I’ve been debating asking people on Facebook for advice but holding off for now.