When you’re living with lupus, it can feel like every symptom and test is part of the same story. But what happens when new clues emerge, pointing toward a different diagnosis like Mixed Connective Tissue Disorder (MCTD)? Let’s break down the differences, key markers, and why it all matters for your care.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis in Men
When people think about rheumatoid arthritis (RA), they often picture it as a “women’s disease.” But here’s the reality: up to one-third of RA patients are men. 💡 While the biology of RA—joint pain, swelling, and inflammation—is the same in men and women, the experience can be very different.
For starters, men may not recognize the severity of their symptoms as early as women. Sometimes, greater muscle mass can mask inflammation, making it harder for men to notice how much joint damage is happening beneath the surface. Add to that the common misconception that arthritis doesn’t happen to men, and many delay seeking help until the symptoms are unbearable.
[Read more…] about Rheumatoid Arthritis in MenHow CAR-T Could Transform Lupus
Autoimmunity 101: Why Does Lupus Happen?
Lupus is one of the most complex autoimmune diseases, but at its core, it all starts with the immune system turning on itself. Normally, your immune system is like a factory with a top-notch quality control system. Regulatory cells make sure the immune “robots” attacking bacteria and viruses don’t go rogue and start targeting your healthy tissues.
[Read more…] about How CAR-T Could Transform LupusSjogren’s Symptoms: A New Approach
When people think of Sjogren’s disease, they usually picture dry eyes and dry mouth. While those are classic symptoms, Sjogren’s is so much more than just dryness. It’s a systemic autoimmune condition, meaning it can affect your entire body—even in ways that aren’t obvious in lab tests or physical exams.
Fatigue, brain fog, and chronic pain are some of the most frustrating symptoms for people with Sjogren’s. Yet, these symptoms often go unnoticed or unaddressed because they don’t fall into the traditional treatment plan. If this sounds like your experience, it’s time to take a fresh look at your care strategy.
[Read more…] about Sjogren’s Symptoms: A New ApproachRheumatoid Arthritis Advanced Testing
When it comes to diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), the Rheumatoid Factor (RF) test has been the standard for decades. But here’s the thing—up to 25% of people with RA don’t test positive for RF. That’s a pretty big group of people who might face unnecessary delays in getting a diagnosis and starting treatment.
This is where advanced testing steps in. These tests can help confirm a diagnosis of RA, even when RF is negative. If you’ve been struggling to get answers about your joint pain, it might be time to consider these options.
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