Update
 

Well after going through 2 rheumotogists, I have finally found the right one. A very nice man with a bit of a sense of humor. When he started asking me questions and I answered him, he asked me if I were in the medical field. I had to laugh and told him no. I read the healthboards. He spent a lot of time with me asking questions and a really thorough exam. He does suspect MCTD with a bit of lupus thrown in due to my genes. Have very swollen joints and didn't realize my RA blood work came in high. Missed that one. I am still going to take cymbalta and planquenil but he wants me to take 2.5 mg. of prednisone a day until I see him again in March. Does that sound correct? I'm not sure what the prednisone will do for me, either harm or help. Anyone else on it for a while? I know some of the side effects like high sugar levels and weight gain but I also know it helps with pain and inflammation. I could use some feed back. Thanks all. Linda Hope all my friends are well.

Re: Update
 

Yay, what good news about your appt. with rheum. #3. And I like that he scheduled you for followup in 3 months; it makes such good sense to keep close tabs on a new patient.

I think 2.5 mg of Prednisone is a very low dose, but I hope others share first-hand experience. (As comparison, my SIL took 60 mg at one point, which may be the max, I'm not sure.)

May this mark the beginning of a better chapter in your life. Let us know how you're doing. With best wishes always, Vee

Re: Update
 

Thanks veej! Stay well!