1 Week To Go

shandy4greenday
shandy4greenday Member Posts: 344
edited 17. Jan 2013, 03:25 in Living with Arthritis archive
Only one week till my first Rhumy appointment and I am getting quite nervous now,I keep worrying that knowing my luck I will be having a rare good day and they won't be able to test me properly,as strange as it seems I really am hoping for one of my bad days so they can see what pain I'm in the only problem is my appointment is at 9am and mine don't kick in till later in the morning or around lunchtime I really hope they will see all the problems I have ok and it's probably just me being a bit apprehensive about it all any advise will be good thankyou.

Comments

  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,761
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    OK, first of all - relax :) They won't rely on how you look to determine how you are.

    Secondly, try making notes between now and then of how things are and when. You might notice a pattern you hadn't seen before and, if you also note when you take which meds, you'll be able to note how effective they are.

    If you have areas that swell up or look inflamed take photos as they might be normal on the day.

    Take someone with you if you can. It means you have someone to jog your memory, if necessary and, just as important, another set of ears to remember what's said.

    If there are things you know you want to ask, make a list and don't be afraid to take it in with you.

    You're bound to be apprehensive but remember we're all behind you and pocket duties are available on request :)
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • shandy4greenday
    shandy4greenday Member Posts: 344
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I think like you say I'm just a bit apprehensive. I have made a list of all the problems I get ready to take with me so I can just give them it so they get an idea of what problems I get.My son will be coming with me too,I think I just need to get this over with and think this cold weather is not helping as most of us on here are all aware the difficulties with it especially as I had a few good days last week too which is rare.Thank you.
  • dreamdaisy
    dreamdaisy Member Posts: 31,520
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    There is no need to be nervous. As Sticky suggested take in your diary of what happens, what helps or aggravates, tiredness levels etc, answer his questions as factually as possible and don't be surprised if he wants blood tests and/or Xrays done. We'll be with you in spirit, OK? DD
    Have you got the despatches? No, I always walk like this. Eddie Braben
  • wall1409
    wall1409 Member Posts: 294
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Please dont be worried, they are there to help and it takes time, I had bloods and an xray first visit, followed by MRI. My first visit was 31st August second was around middle September and I am now awaiting an urgent referral and second MRI as symptoms can change with this and they know that.

    Good luck hun, you will get plenty of support from this site.

    Wendy x
  • barbara12
    barbara12 Member Posts: 21,281
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    The others have given you some good advice, I just want to say I hope you have a good appointment, and you get some answers...will be thinking about you x
    Love
    Barbara
  • shandy4greenday
    shandy4greenday Member Posts: 344
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thankyou everyone Bloods don't bother me and I will be glad to get xrays finally done as this has never been done yet,I have my list all ready to give them ,I have just joined Slimming World and I am finally enjoying a good healthy diet that is helping too,I guess It is getting used to all this doc and hos visits now as it will most likely be a common thing now.It's my birthday on Monday a day before so I think I'm try have a relaxing day and hope Tuesday will go well thankyou all.
  • hileena111
    hileena111 Member Posts: 7,099
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi
    Its not stupid to want to be sore when you go for the appointment....its normal.
    All you can do is make notes of pain/when/where/what aggrarvates it etc.
    Also questions that you want to ask {as well as things you want to tell him}
    I dont get swelling but if you do take pics beforehand,
    Do you have anyone going with you. Its a big help to have someone to help you remember what you wanted to say {as well as the notes} and also to help you remember exactly what he said to you.
    Sending you ((((())))

    Love
    Hileena
  • shandy4greenday
    shandy4greenday Member Posts: 344
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I have had swelling in my hands and wrist since September never gone and I have my son coming with me and yes I have got notes to take with me too.I feel much better about it now that I have a bit of an idea what is likely to happen Thankyou.