Hi all,
i have my appointment next week with rheumatologist can anyone give me any clue what sort of questions, test etc., they will be doing. i just like to be informed as to what i am going into, dont like going in blind.
janet
Best to write down your symptoms (describing them in detail eg when, where, how long, type of pain and what makes it worse/better) and write any questions you have for him. Prob be mostly taking a medical history, perhaps a blood test but any further tests are usually doen at a later date if necessary. May also do physical examination for tender points. Also depends on how much your GP has investigated already. Take someone with you to help remember what's said. Good luck 
JK
mine asked me about hair loss gravely or loss of voice , thats to make sure the thyroid is working properly , asked about the pain and and tenderness , and tested the known tender spots by pressing if you have most or all of the tender spots thats pretty much confirms fibro, he will ask about fatigue and balance issues . sometimes diet.
he then offered me pain relief injections , which i refused because i had it on very authority that they can work wonderfuly well, but on the other hand they can make the pain alot worse, and i personaly couldnt stand any more pain
. thats about it ,
he will tell you to move as much as you can . go home and get on with it basicly.
phisyso maybe offerd it is available on nhs but not sure if thats everywhere or postcode .
hope you get some help .
Hello..Dobie2....A short explination of UR symptoms & medical history is needed, then the dr will ask for more info as u move along. The first appt is information driven for u both. This is UR chance to interview him! Rhumy's specialize in many types of arthritis,,RA...
Better yet know what questions to ask urself to better inform the dr to help analyze UR treatment plan. Blood tests , X-rays ultra sound along with other tests will help.
Where does it hurt?
What makes it feel better or worse?
When did you begin to feel the pain?
When do you typically feel pain?
Is the pain dull or sharp?
How long does the pain typically last?
Do you have swelling or redness of any joints?
Do your symptoms affect your ability to perform any daily tasks?
Have you injured the affected joint, been in an accident, or recently overused the joint that is affected ?
Would you like to try PT ?
Also be UR own best advocate. Redefine UR life and stay proactive in UR health care. Explain that to UR dr. any lifestyle changes reciently made to improve UR health.. Diet... Exercise...
Illustrate the need u have to research RA, networking and usage of the benefits of social media ( like here)as UR outlet for staying in touch with RA treatment. In many cases in today's health world it's necessary to be familiar with bio drugs. Research BIOLOGICAL DRUGS, HUMIRA, RECLAST, CIMZA..etc. know other new drugs used for RA treatment and be familiar with the benefits and SIDE EFFECTS to ask questions about UR treatment.
Stay informed be clear about UR expectations stay empowered by knowing UR body and UR options.. Listen... Listen... Listen..to the plan of treatment the doctor individualized for UR needs. Remember u do not need to try his first option of treatment right away... I simply ask my doc if I can think on it, in order to give me time to research the drug and fully understand treatment. Rather than jump in at the first prescription then end up not using it wasting time & money. The other side of the coin u never know if the side effects effect u until u try the drug. Be sure to know all UR allergies. Prepare a list of current drugs u r taking.
Also know that everyone is different it takes time for a health care plan to be realized.
Stay strong. Good luck. Let me know what UR Rhumy's treatment plan is for you.
HOPE