Dr. Google

So at the same time I went in for my blood tests to start Lithium I was also getting follow up tests for Anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS or Hughes syndrome). I had gotten my first test last July after having two miscarriages in April and June and then having an odd shortened cycle. I had gone through a TON of tests (over 13 vials) and this is the only one that came back abnormal. But we didn't know if it was a true positive or if it was abnormal because I was yet again pregnant. I couldn't take the test again right away because of the pregnancy, which can sometimes alter tests. So I went 9 months wondering, all the while taking ASA each day. I got my req for tests again in May but didn't go. I put it off and put it off. When my dr gave me my Lithium tests last week she told me I had to get my follow up tests for APS. Since getting those tests done, I spent time reading online about APS, checking signs and symptoms. Of course that is the worst thing a person with an anxiety disorder could do. There are things I had an idea that could be related and it was confirmed, but then there were other things that I didn't realize that could be related that I also have. So now I get to sit here and wonder until those tests come back, and after all the reading with Dr. Google, I am anticipating a positive result. Of course in all my reading I didn't look at treatment, just because I don't want to think that far. But I have a feeling it entails lots of dr visits.....

For those of you wondering these are the signs and symptoms of APS (a * denotes symptoms I have)

• Blood Clots (arterial or venous with the most common being Stroke or Deep Vein Thrombosis)
• Miscarriage, stillbirth or premature birth *
• Possible severe pre-eclampsia
• Headaches or migraines *
• Oscillopsia *
• Double Vision 
• Joint pain *
• Excessive hair loss *
• Cold or bluish hands *
• Dry eyes *
• Sharp chest pains *
• Balance and mobility problems *
• Speech and memory problems * (more memory than speech)
• Tingling sensation in the arms and legs * (pins and needles)
• Fatigue *

As you can see, I have a lot of the symptoms. Fun right?