Sjogren's disease

[Guest guest]

Well, I met eith a rheumatologist and she is positive I have osteo-

arthritis in my hands and feet,and possibly rheumatoid arthritis as

well, but my symptoms lead her to believe there is something else

going on. They took 4 more vials of my blood and are testing for

kidney function, Sjogren's disease and anothe series of lupus tests.

Never heard of Sjogren's until now so I did some research...seems it

attacks and destroys your moisture producing glands (salvary, tears,

etc..)No known cure.

I have had terribly dry mouth, nose and eyes for years. Have

discussed this with several doctors over the years who just brushed

me off and told me to drink more water....(I drink at least 60 or

more ounces each day!) But that is another story.....

My concern is this....I am getting quite a bit of relief from the

Shiatsu treatments, but is this just relieving the symptoms or could

it also be preventing the disease(s) from progressing? The rheumy

told me there was no way to curb the progress of this disease without

drugs.

I have checked with many others who have found relief by eliminating

plants from the nightshade family (potatoes, tomatoes, green peppers,

etc.) from their diets. One person also found something called

Minocin that helped a lot but I think that may be a drug. My Shiatsu

provider thinks I should also try accupuncture and Chinese herbal

treatments.

I have tried Vioxx, Relafen and Glucosamine/Chondroitin with

absolutely no results. Ibuprofen is the only thing that really

helps, but I know that it can damage my kidneys.

I am at a total loss as to what to do. I want to use as natural of

an approach as is possible, but is this realistic? Will I really

need to take drugs to slow down or stop the progression of this

affliction?

[Guest guest]

Oh Boy, don't say 'no known cure' to Doc--He might just possibly cure you! Serious!! Patty