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Sometimes I wake with headaches, all of this on top of the other nine lives is as LupusWarriors have! But which doctor should tell of my concerns? Because at this point I only trust my Rheumatologist. The others are hit or miss. I’m sorry but some make me want to walk out mid appointment.

January 26
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MyLupusTeam

Which doctor should you talk to about your hypoxia, breathing difficulties, and related symptoms?

Your rheumatologist is absolutely the right person to start with, especially since you trust them. They know your complete lupus history and can help coordinate your care with other specialists. Your rheumatologist should be Show Full Answer

Which doctor should you talk to about your hypoxia, breathing difficulties, and related symptoms?

Your rheumatologist is absolutely the right person to start with, especially since you trust them. They know your complete lupus history and can help coordinate your care with other specialists. Your rheumatologist should be made aware of any lupus symptoms you're experiencing, and they can help figure out underlying causes and refer you to appropriate specialists if needed.

The symptoms you're describing - oxygen drops, difficulty lying flat, waking up catching your breath, and headaches - are serious and need attention. Your rheumatologist can help determine if these issues are lupus-related or if you need specialized care from a pulmonologist or sleep specialist. It's completely valid to feel frustrated with doctors who make you want to walk out. You deserve a care team that takes you seriously. Here are some strategies that might help:

* Keep detailed records of your symptoms, when they occur, and how they affect you
* Bring a trusted friend or family member to appointments for support and to help advocate for you
* Use your patient portal or app to message doctors - writing things down creates a clear record
* Speak up if you don't feel heard: "I don't feel like my symptoms are being taken seriously"
* Consider getting a second opinion if concerns continue to be dismissed

Your rheumatologist can be your advocate and help coordinate with other specialists, ensuring everyone is on the same page about your care.

January 26
A MyLupusTeam Member

Patricia, it sounds like you may have sleep apnea, which causes drops in oxygen level overnight and sudden awakenings. Do you know if you snore and stop breathing while you sleep? Oxygen alone won't treat sleep apnea, and CPAP or biPAP are needed.

Please ask your primary or rheumatologist to order sleep apnea testing for you. The tongue biting is a little more concerning, as it may accompany seizures. Please discuss that possibility with your doctor.

January 26
A MyLupusTeam Member

I would definitely start with the doctor that you trust. Take care.

January 26
A MyLupusTeam Member

Are you near a medical school by any chance? Youve got to have more than just your rheumatologist baby. A full care team of specialist is absolutely necessary. Look for a close teaching institution. The offer multidisciplinary clinics and the care is always better.

January 26
A MyLupusTeam Member

I totally agree! Sleep Apnea can actually be common amount Lupus patients. Its not obstructive, its a little different but the effects are just the same. I'd go back to pulmonary and ask for lupus related Apnea sleep test. My rheumatologist has sent me before. Its worth looking into especially given all the symptoms youre having. We are here for you love!!

January 26

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