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My dr
said since I don't have the skin rash or butterfly rash on my face it probably isn't Lupus.

February 20, 2020
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A MyLupusTeam Member

Gina had great advice

Anemia is a common aliment. That will have to be corrected and the reason found before they will even consider more severe causes. It could merely be diet related and a lack of iron

When Lupus is causing blood problems its because the immune system attacks blood cells causing low counts. There will be other evidence that points to this including the age of your blood cells. If the body is pumping them out constantly but you’re still low, then it points to them being destroyed for some reason. Evidence of this would be in your CBC

A low ANA titer is found in a decent percentage of the population so it doesn’t give doctors a lot to go off of. Do you know what you titer is? 1:40? 1:80? Etc? You need to know this specific. If it is high it points to a problem that needs to be uncovered. If low it could mean several things ranging from 1) nothing at all 2) a family history of autoimmune disease 3) some types of infection 4) hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can cause most a of your symptoms so consider asking for a thyroid blood panel

The face rash isn’t something everyone with Lupus gets. So your doctor is uninformed there. But Lupus would likely cause other concerning problems that even an uninformed doctor would notice and question. Low platelet count. A low WBC count. Joint swelling and pain. Protein in urine. Bizarre rashes and circulation issues caused by sunlight. Lung and heart problems etc.

If you are concerned ask your doctor what the cause of your anemia is from. If lab tests clearly point to an iron deficiency that is likely the cause of your issues since Anemia can cause all the complaints you’re listing.

If you are still tired after your anemia is fixed asked for a thyroid panel. Low thyroid function would explain the fatigue, aches and ANA

Please ask about your ANA titer though and post if when you find it. We can tell you a lot more if we knew that result

February 20, 2020 (edited)
MyLupusTeam

A positive ANA test can be an indicator of lupus, but it is not definitive on its own. According to the knowledge base:

- ANA Test: Helps in diagnosing lupus but must be considered with other tests and clinical evaluations
- Symptoms: Common lupus symptoms include joint pain, fatigue, muscle pain, and skin issues.

It's Show Full Answer

A positive ANA test can be an indicator of lupus, but it is not definitive on its own. According to the knowledge base:

- ANA Test: Helps in diagnosing lupus but must be considered with other tests and clinical evaluations.
- Symptoms: Common lupus symptoms include joint pain, fatigue, muscle pain, and skin issues.

It's important to discuss your results and symptoms with your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

July 28, 2024
A MyLupusTeam Member

I've had lupus since 2007 and have never had a butterfly rash.

February 20, 2020
A MyLupusTeam Member

Hi Ruby
I just want you to know that there are different rashes on the face. Mine does not have any raised bumps like a rash, but I do have a very red butterfly across my face and it’s very warm.
The Lupus articles here are a great source of information.
I hope you’re coping well. You will find an answer. Maybe by another doctor.
Good luck with your search.

July 28, 2024
A MyLupusTeam Member

Praying for a diagnosis and treatment! We are all different.

February 20, 2020

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