Symptomatic: A Medical Mystery Podcast – Episode Summary: "House Calls - Case #16 Lauren"

Release Date: December 10, 2024
Host: Lauren Bright Pacheco
Episode Title: House Calls - Case #16 Lauren

Introduction

In the sixteenth episode of "House Calls" from Symptomatic: A Medical Mystery Podcast, host Lauren Bright Pacheco revisits the medical journey of Lauren Scholl, a former professional dancer who battled undiagnosed psoriatic arthritis for fifteen years. This detailed update delves into Lauren's struggles with misdiagnoses, the impact on her career and personal life, and her eventual path to a correct diagnosis and new career.

Lauren's Medical Journey

Lauren Scholl began experiencing symptoms at a young age, initially presenting with skin irritation and rashes. Her first visit to a dermatologist resulted in a diagnosis of dermatitis. As Lauren progressed through college, her skin condition worsened, accompanied by joint stiffness and pain in her legs and feet, which significantly impacted her ability to dance professionally.

Lauren Scholl [00:06]: "I pushed through pain for 15 years before being diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis at the age of 28."

Despite her dedication to dance, Lauren found herself frequently taking breaks due to her deteriorating health, signaling a deeper underlying issue.

Misdiagnoses and Impact

For years, Lauren grappled with a series of misdiagnoses, including dermatitis and psoriasis, which failed to address the root cause of her debilitating joint pain. Her condition often went unnoticed by her medical providers until a podiatrist recognized advanced arthritis patterns in her joints.

Lauren Scholl [01:13]: "He was the first person to actually notice my patches on my skin... he said, have you had this for a long time? That looks like psoriasis."

This period was marked by frustration and fear, as Lauren, a former professional dancer accustomed to listening to her body, watched her physical capabilities decline without a clear diagnosis or effective treatment plan.

Finding the Correct Diagnosis

The turning point in Lauren's medical journey came when she met Dr. Erin Arnold, who took a comprehensive approach to evaluating her symptoms and medical history. Dr. Arnold's persistence and thoroughness led to the correct diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis.

Lauren Scholl [02:09]: "She made me feel like we were not going to stop trying until we could find an option that worked."

This diagnosis not only provided clarity but also opened the door to appropriate treatment options, ultimately allowing Lauren to regain control over her health and life.

Emotional and Professional Impact

Lauren's journey was not just a physical battle but also an emotional one. The prolonged period of uncertainty and pain led her to question her career path, resulting in the difficult decision to leave professional dancing. However, this transition proved to be a blessing in disguise, as Lauren found fulfillment in a new career that aligns with her passion for helping others.

Matt [05:22]: "I had to change my career path because of the damage and the pain that I was feeling. It was a blessing in disguise."

Lauren's new role as a personal trainer and nutritionist allows her to empathize deeply with her clients, drawing from her own experiences with chronic illness and recovery.

Family and Personal Life

Lauren's condition also had a significant impact on her family life. Both of her children were diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and her husband has ankylosing spondylitis. This shared experience with autoimmune conditions fostered a supportive and understanding household, emphasizing the importance of self-care and rest.

Matt [08:10]: "Being able to show up for myself and show my kids the importance of taking care of ourselves has been constant talk in our household."

Lauren emphasizes the value of internal strength and the necessity of listening to one's body, challenging the often-romanticized notion of pushing through pain without heed.

Matt [07:49]: "Strength comes from being able to listen to your body... giving your body what it's asking for."

Listener Interaction

During the episode, Lauren Bright Pacheco engages with listener questions, addressing concerns about the diagnostic process Lauren underwent. A listener named Pete from North Carolina expressed confusion over why dermatologists did not connect Lauren's psoriasis with her arthritis symptoms.

Matt [12:48]: "I did go back to the dermatologist and no, they never linked my psoriasis to arthritis. There was never once the question asked."

This interaction highlights gaps in medical diagnostics and underscores the importance of holistic evaluation in chronic illness cases.

Maintaining Positivity and Moving Forward

Despite the challenges, Lauren maintains a positive outlook, attributing her resilience to her love for dance and her ongoing efforts to stay active.

Matt [14:49]: "Dance it out... I am still always dancing."

Lauren emphasizes that while her approach to dance has evolved, it remains a vital part of her healing and personal expression.

Conclusion

Lauren Scholl's story is a poignant example of the struggles faced by individuals with chronic, misunderstood illnesses. Her journey from misdiagnosis to empowerment serves as an inspiring testament to the importance of perseverance, comprehensive medical evaluation, and the pursuit of personal well-being. "House Calls - Case #16 Lauren" not only sheds light on the complexities of psoriatic arthritis but also celebrates Lauren's strength and the positive transformations that emerged from her arduous path to diagnosis and recovery.

For more stories like Lauren's and to share your own medical mystery, you can reach out to Symptomatic@iHeartMedia.com.