"...HELLP during a pregnancy can be the first sign that a woman has an underlying collagen vascular disease such as lupus..."

Q:  I am a 38-year-old mother of a beautiful two year old who was delivered through c- section due to HELLP syndrome. My son was born two months premature but did very well from the start. I, however, stayed very ill throughout my pregnancy, and very nearly died before my son could be delivered. When my doctor finally diagnosed me with HELLP Syndrome, they gave me magnesium to try and control the situation.  Well 2 1/2 years later, I am having arthritis type pain in both my elbows and now my knees.  Arthritis is not common in my family and although I have not been diagnosed with it, I am beginning to suspect that either the magnesium I was given or the actual illness that I had contributed to my current condition. It is getting to the point now that I cannot pick up my son, or even a cup of coffee in the mornings without great pain and because I am only 38 I am getting concerned that this situation will only intensify with time. I don't know which direction to turn to. Please send me any information you may have on the after effects of HELLP Syndrome or magnesium treatment.

A:  The magnesium should not be the cause of the arthritis.  We do not believe that HELLP would be a cause of subsequent arthritis.

On the other hand, HELLP during a pregnancy can be the first sign that a woman has an underlying collagen vascular disease such as lupus, which is characterized in some cases by arthritis. Collagen vascular diseases can have a long preclinical period without significant symptoms.  Pregnancy under these circumstances can result in HELLP due to the collagen vascular disease.

I would recommend that you see a rheumatologist regarding the arthritis.  Be certain to tell them about your HELLP syndrome.