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Apr 27, 2010

Understanding Lupus: What Is It Exactly?

This topic revolves around someone experiencing health issues after a physically demanding task and seeking advice on managing their symptoms and workplace situation. Here's a breakdown of the situation and some helpful advice:

- After moving heavy tables, the person has been feeling unwell, with concerns about a possible parastomal hernia due to liquid-only stoma output. Although X-rays showed no blockage, further tests are planned, and lupus is being considered as a potential diagnosis.

- The person works as a front-end supervisor and cashier at a grocery store, where lifting grocery bags worsens their symptoms. They requested a temporary reassignment to office work, but management denied this request. Despite being in a union and contributing to a disability plan, they have no paid sick leave and are seeking advice on obtaining workplace accommodations.

- Additional symptoms include transient rashes on the body and arms, extreme fatigue, irritability, cold-colored toes, frequent low-volume urination, and some memory lapses. They suspect fibromyalgia might explain these symptoms and are undergoing tests.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights:

1. Hernia and Stoma Care
- If experiencing limited or decreasing output along with severe pain, it could indicate a hernia that might need surgical repair. Consider seeking a second medical opinion.
- Avoid activities that strain the abdominal wall, such as lifting, pushing, and bending, until a proper evaluation is done.

2. Auto-immune Differential and Symptoms
- Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various body parts, and diagnosing it can be challenging. Classic signs include a butterfly-shaped facial rash, fatigue, and Raynaud’s phenomenon, where fingers or toes change color in response to cold.
- Discolored toes might suggest Raynaud’s, which can occur with other disorders, so it’s worth checking.
- Symptoms like fatigue, pain, and rashes can overlap with conditions like fibromyalgia, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, scleroderma, Sjögren’s syndrome, and chronic fatigue syndrome, so more specific testing is recommended.

3. Workplace and Union Strategy
- The first step is to involve the union representative to advocate for temporary light-duty or office work.
- Obtain a detailed letter from a physician outlining functional limitations, such as maximum lifting weight and restrictions on bending or standing. Present this to HR or management and the union, as employers are generally required to make reasonable accommodations when provided with medical documentation.

4. General Support
- Many people offered emotional support and reminded the person to prioritize their health, even if it means changing work duties or leaving a harmful position if necessary.
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