Good Rheumatologist appt.

ritwren
ritwren Member Posts: 928
edited 15. Mar 2012, 08:55 in Living with Arthritis archive
So often appointments don't go as planned. Things I want to ask are forgotten, I see a different Doctor from last time and feel things are hurried.

Today was different. I asked to be seen by the Consultant himself as is my right and when the junior Dr called me to be seen I went quietly and politely told her that I would preferr to see my Consultant. I find it incredibly difficult to talk about my disease and symptoms apart from on here and to see a different Dr each time for me is unbarable.

I was seen and had a very thorough appointment where I was able to discuss my condition and treatments properly. It was'nt hurried and I had blood tests, x rays and a scan done.
Unfortunately the outcome is that there has been some progression of my PA and the Methotrexate is'nt keeping things at bay. I'm now starting Leflunomide and had a steroid injection today and will have one more in a month and another the month after that. Hopefully by that time the new tabs will have kicked in.
I'm keeping my fingers crossed. A big thanks to all on this forum who have helped me get the strength and confidence to get through this. Big hugs. Rita.

Comments

  • mig
    mig Member Posts: 7,154
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    So glad the appointment went well.Mig
  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,763
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Respect, ritwren! That was a good appointment thanks entirely to your own efforts. I'm sorry the outcome was that things are a bit worse but at least you know the score. I hope the steroids kick in immediately and do their job until the new meds can take over.
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • hileena111
    hileena111 Member Posts: 7,099
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hey
    That sounds like a good appointment.....good for you....sticking up for your rights

    Love
    Hileena
  • valval
    valval Member Posts: 14,911
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    well done you have made us proud sorry things are not more improved but these meds might be the ticket val
    val
  • ritwren
    ritwren Member Posts: 928
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thanks very much Mig.
    Stikywicket thanks very much, I'm hoping the same thing. I knew anyhow that things were'nt as good and today just confirmed it.
    Hileena I came out feeling quite empowered if you know what I mean.
    Valval I'm keeping everything crossed for a good response.
    You're all so kind and supportive here thanks for taking the time to post.
    Big hugs.
    Rita.
  • suzygirl
    suzygirl Member Posts: 2,005
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Well done you!!!! Thats great that you took charge and got yourself proper treatment, I hope it works for you.
  • traluvie
    traluvie Member Posts: 2,579
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Glad things went well, hope the new meds ease things for you.x
    th_tn_TisFORTIGGER.jpgxxTracyxx
  • julie47
    julie47 Member Posts: 6,041
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Good morning rita

    I am pleased that your appointment went well and hope that the leflunomide helps. I am on both , methotrexate and leflunomide and I have found it helps me. So ...fingers crossed for you.
    I hope the steroid kicks in soon too.

    Take care
    Love & ((())) Juliepf xx
  • ironic
    ironic Member Posts: 2,361
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi and well done you for standing firm. I hope the injection has started working for you and things improve for you.
    I hope the new meds when you start them help quickly.

    I am so pleased that you had a positive appointment and were able to ask your questions without being rushed. :D

    Lv, I x
  • barbara12
    barbara12 Member Posts: 21,281
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    What a difference a good appointment makes, its not much to ask is it..you take care, and I wish you well with everything xx
    Love
    Barbara
  • ritwren
    ritwren Member Posts: 928
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Suzygirl, Traluvie, Julie, Ironic and Barbara, thanks for taking the time to post and be so supportive. I'm hoping for the best, am really exhausted today but it's not long until the weekend.
    Big hugs to you all and thanks again, Rita.