Suzabelle,

Welcome,

I don't know if your doctor explained that Sjogren's can be Primary or Secondary. Primary is when it stands alone with no other autoimmune disease present. Secondary is when another autoimmune disease...like MS, RA, Lupus, etc...are present. It however, does NOT mean that the severity of the sjogren's is any less in a secondary form or more severe in a primary form. Just that there are/are not other AI disease involvement. So it is very possible to have both MS and Sjogren's. If they have seen and confirmed MS lesions, and you have positively tested for Sjogren's then both diseases processes are likely the case for you...Sjogren's being secondary.

As for the pain, Sjogren's can have CNS manifestations like you describe. The bladder issue might be an autonomic issues (if it's difficult to initiate the flow and empty the bladder). Autonomic dysfunction can also cause balance problems. Do you have any problems with your BP and heart rate?

Have they started you on Plaquenil? It comes in a generic, so should be allowed with Medicaid. It is the first line DMARD to use with autoimmune disease to help ease joint pain, help with fatigue and slow progression.

I too have Sjogren's with severe neurological complications, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask.

It sounds like you have many possible triggers with all the surgeries alone. MrsD provided you a great starting point for getting B12 levels, Vit D checked, and a look at some dietary changes that might helps ease your symptoms.