SJOGRENS

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Since my diagnosis in 2008 I have learned more about myself and the importance of the medical community. I was in the United States Marine Corps when I started to have symptoms in early 2006. Then my husband and I got pregnant and I had my daughter in late 2006. After two years of my health declining and negative tests I was finally diagnosed with Sjogrens Syndrome. I was medicated, blood tested every other day to week, x-rayed, CT Scanned, ultra sounded and so much more before receiving the diagnosis. In late 2008 I finished my contract with the military and went straight to college to earn my degree. My brain fog, extreme fatigue and joint pains made it hard for me to go to classes and work. I had to push through and endure for my daughter. 

At first Drs tried many different medications. The primary medication for Sjogrens at the time was Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine), and as I understand I still is today. However, within hours of taking my first dose my skin turn yellow (jaundice) and my blood pressure dropped. I was rushed to the ER and was told I couldn’t take the medication anymore. After that my rheumatologist at the time decided that I was going to have to treat the symptoms as they came and couldn’t be put on medications. 

It took ten years of specialists, tests and hardworking for me to get to where I am now. I have hypothyroidism as well. Before CoVid-19 my Drs were testing me and figuring out if I could have fibromyalgia. Unfortunately I am allergic or have negative reactions to many medications. I have 8 different specialists at the moment that I go to at the VA hospitals for specific ailments and symptoms. 

My tips and advice for anyone who suffers from Sjogrens and have similar reactions to the medications is below. (ASK YOUR DOCTOR FIRST)