I was diagnosed with Scleroderma and Hashimotos in the same appointment by a doctor who assured me the first disease would be nothing more than some mild joint pain...
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, and the second could be managed with medication. I left that appointment knowing that he was wrong, and I needed more answers. But even then I went through a few doctors before I found the right one. Once I did find a thorough rheumatologist I was informed that Scleroderma was more than just 'some occasional joint pain.' It involved internal organs, skin thickening, impaired immune function and dysfunction of the body's systems. It's caused by the overproduction of collagen which can lead to fibrosis (scarring of the internal organs). There is more involved but that is the short story. I was told the treatment for the joint pain and fatigue was plaquenil which is an anti-malarial drug used in rheumatic conditions. I was apprehensive to take it. I filled the prescription but ultimately decided it was not the right choice for myself. Something was telling me there was another way. During that time while figuring out my health journey I went back to school to major in Nutrition. It has been an integral part of my healing and the reduction of symptoms. I also had to battle intestinal bacterial overgrowth, systemic inflammation, gut healing, food intolerances, and getting my body moving through low impact exercise. The most important thing to remember is that a health journey is not linear, and that what works for one may not work for another. Treatments should not be a one size fits all but tailored to each individual. My naturopath was essential in my healing journey. I think the biggest things that need to change in standard care is conventional doctors running a full nutrient panel. Many symptoms can be resolved through proper supplementation and diet. I am not saying it's a cure but it can help things, as malnutrition (which is common with some autoimmune diseases) prolongs disease states and symptoms and impairs immune function."