Lip Biopsy for Sjogren's Syndrome

[SMP]

Had my lip biopsy today, over and done in 20 mins. Injection was a bit uncomfortable but after that felt nothing. Removed 4 small saliva glands and closed with dissolvable stitches. Feeling a bit sore now. Get results in 3 weeks.

[ethandron]

Did you have this done to diagnose it? I ask because one of our almost daughters in law has this condition and I'm very interested in finding out all I can about it.

[SMP]

Yes i did. I have all the classic symptoms, dry mouth and eyes, awful fatigue and joint pain but my blood tests show no Sjogren's antibodies. In April my Rheumatologist put me on Hydroxychloroquine, an antimalarial drug that is known to help with the fatigue and joint pain and also the mouth ulcers I get. I have noticed that on a day to day basis my symptoms have eased up a bit but if I do too much i.e mow the lawn, too much driving, I get a flareup. The biopsy hopefully will give a definite diagnosis.
I understand that it is not uncommon for women to find that this condition can take about 6-7 years to get a diagnosis. I myself have had many of the symptoms for years, especially the tiredness and joint pain but Sjogren's was only first mentioned 2 years ago.

[ethandron]

Thank you for the info SMP, its about managing the symptoms then I guess? What will it mean to you, having a definitive diagnosis?
I hope you go on ok :)

[SMP]

Ethandron- sorry not got back to you sooner, been laid up for 3 days with vertigo. i think having a definite diagnosis will mean I am not going mad lol. Over the years I have been back and forward to the GP especially with tiredness and joint pain but my bloods always come back normal. I hope your daughter in law doesn't suffer too badly. Unfortunately my middle daughter 23, is also showing the same symptoms, the dry eyes and mouth, extreme fatigue and joint pain.
Sara