Comment on Living with AutoImmune Diseases by Debra.
I hear you. I too am going down that road. FYI, there is a rheumatologist in the Pittsburgh, Pa area, Susan Manzi, MD who is famous in fighting the autoimmune complex of diseases. Patients fly in from worldwide areas for her care. Her practice includes some of the latest research projects including lupus. She and her staff include some of the MOST compassionate and comprehensive care I have ever encountered. My background as an RN provides an edge, so to speak, in determining early on, as you describe in you endocrinologist experience, that most practitioners sadly miss the mark in diagnosis. For 15 years I had this experience UNTIL………my first visit with Dr. Manzi. After a multitude of specialized lab tests and a really in depth history of my conditions, there was a solid diagnosis and treatment plan on the follow-up visit. Sometimes these conditions wax and wane and/or slip into additional problems, but, having the right Dr. at the get go is such support. I too am at a crossroad regarding the advice of a naturopath in addition to traditional care as my feeling is that as a nation, our food supply has been greatly compromised by chemical additions, too much sugar, genetically modified foods, etc., etc., etc. My heartfelt support goes out to you. Best wishes and, please keep usposted. You have a wonderful platform to spread truthful information about these debilitating diseases. Blessings!