Lab Test results

[anniemarie]

First time "poster" here so I am not sure if i am posting in the correct area.
My question is pretty specific.
I have had an elevated ANA for sever years along with a low complement C3.
My question is:
Why other then scleroderma would someone have the SCL-70 antibodies in there system at a highly elevated level?
I have been trying for a long time to get a SPECIFIC answer to this question. I am awaiting an appt. with a new rhuemy; but that will not be until Oct. My current PA and rhuemy have relocated. There are no nuero. surgeons or immunologist in my area.

Thank you,
anniemarie

[anniemarie]

No help here?

[zfixitman]

:wink: Hi, I was trained as a lab tech assistant and can only tell you from my limited experiance. There are new& old chemicals and food additives etc. we are exposed to almost daily that may affect our antibodies. Did you know that air pollution from China can reach the US in about 7 days? My doctor told me one of the first things I can do is to be keenly aware as to what goes into my body and be sensitive to what is going on in it to reduce any stress on it. :smile: Best Wishes

[anniemarie]

Thank you, and yes I am aware of that. However I am symptomatic and therfore it is just not the labs but also the clinical; and have been for several years now. I am 49, 5' 9" 132 lbs. so I try to keep myself fit.
As to your response, I was a union "meatwrapper" from the age of 16 to 29 and had to leave due to a very difficult pregancy, my next pregnancy was also difficult. Meatwrappers are directly exposed to polyvinyl chloride which is being studied as a cause of scleroderma.
There now you know more of my history, Any more ideas/ anything you can help me with would be greatly appreciated.

[zfixitman]

:cool: Hi, I have only interest in this feald, I am not a doctor and ask to consult one. How do you feel in the mornings, midday and then evenings? Does heat or cold improve this issue? Looks like you may know alot about possible solutions as enviromental pollution is affecting most of us. You say you keep fit Thats good. Do you smoke? Drink alcohol? Drink enough clean water? Do you have any amalgum fillings in your teeth? Do you eat much processed foods contaning refined sugars? Take any drugs etc. that may have side effects? For most Americans regular exercise is essential. It is also important to start off slow and have proper balancing rest.