First rheumy appt

Kirsty1979

I have my first rheumy appointment next Thursday and I’m already stressing about it as I don’t really know what to expect. I guess I’m hoping for a final diagnosis as I’ve had a lot of the common tests while I’ve been waiting for my appointment (x- ray, Rh Factor, CRP, ESR – blood tests all normal).
I’m definitely going to mention problems I’ve had with what, after much Googling, I believe to be pustular psoriasis on my hands and feet. I’ve mentioned this to my GP many times and have always been told that it’s probably just eczema and has no relevance whatsoever to the my joint problems, even though it first appeared at the around the same time. They’ve never really even taken a good look at it.

For, like many others I’m sure, these appointments can sometimes pass by in a bit of a blur as there’s often so much to take in. I was wondering if anyone might be able to give examples of the kinds of questions that I might be asked and the sort of additional information that I could give that might be helpful.

Thanks for your help

K xx

suzygirl

Hi, defintely mention the rash to the rheumy. Have you got photos of it in case it isn't there when you see him??

They will take a family history so mention any illnesses etc in family. Ask about your past health problems, current symptoms etc. They may examine you, so best undies!!! No nail polish or make up is best.

They will run there own blood tests just to be sure, but they may give you an indication of what they think may be wrong.

Mention fevers, swelling, rashes, stiffness how long etc.

Hope it goes well for you!!

tjt6768

Best of luck with your first appointment, I am just about the worst one to ask advise on what questions to ask etc, lol.... I am a tad useless like that.
I go to see the Rheumy nurse for the 1st time on the 18th (seen the specialist a few times) so I am taking my OH with me for sure
She actually has a working brain cell or two :shock:

Be well

meanyjarReA

There are probably many more tests the rheumy would like to see first, don't pin your hopes on a diagnosis straight away, it is crushing when your expectations are not met.

However, I truly hope you do get your diagnosis.

Tip: Make sure the rheumy listens to you properly and actually hears you too, these apps are few and far between. They tend to start shuffling papers 20 seconds in to you explaining then when the letter arrives of his/her summary of appointment it is different to what you have said! This is only in my experience of course!

barbara12

Hi Kirsty
Make sure you write everything down, going back to when you first had symptoms, and a list of any meds you are taking.
Good Luck with it and let us know how it goes.
Barbara x

dreamdaisy

Certainly mention the what you think might be pustular psoriasis and don't be surprised if he refers you to dermatology: they are the ones who know about skin, rheumatologists don't.

List the things that are going on, what hurts and when, what helps and what doesn't, tiredness levels, pain and/or swelling, whether stuff comes and goes or whether it was constant. I was 'lucky' with my inflammatory arthritis in that my CRP and ESR were always high - they spent years between 50 - 180 but PA was not diagnosed until October 06 during the first bout of P on my soles and palms. I had dreadful scalp P in 97, when this all kicked off, but the GP never diagnosed it as that, she said it was some form of dermatitis. On reflection I suppose it was. God she was a rubbish GP.

Good luck, I am sure it will all go better than you think. More blood tests may be required, perhaps an Xray or two, who knows? Let us know how you get on. DD

julie47

Hi kirsty
Just want to wish you luck with your appointment.

I can't remember if anyone else has suggested this could you taake someone with you to remember the things you don't?
You may have to be weighed and possibly give a wee sample.
I think everything else I can think of has been covered.

Take care
Juliepf x

ironic

Hi Kirsty,
As everyone has said take a diary of you symptoms and pass it over to the rheumy as this does help them with diagnosis and treatments. I was weighed, blood pressure taken and a water sample taken. You may also be sent of x-rays and more than likely blood tests taken. You will be asked what medication you are taking including any herbal ones. As Suzy has said; best underwear.

It is a lot to take in so if you can take someone with you it might help you. You can usually have a copy of the report sent to you as well.
Take a biscuit with you as sometimes these clinics can overrun so you could be hanging about for a while.

Good luck and let us know how you get on.
Lv, Ix

Kirsty1979

Thanks for the advice everyone - as helpful as ever

Will let you know how I get on

K x