Hi all - dont want to be a burden

julespa
julespa Member Posts: 4
edited 28. Nov 2023, 14:05 in Living with arthritis

Hi all - I'm new to the forum. I am a 55 year old woman who was diagnosed with RA two years ago. The last time I saw my doctor (beginning of March) my hips and shoulders were the worse thing. He put me on a list for injections - obviously with COVID I have not heard anything. Since this time, apart from monthly blood tests, I have not seen the specialist. My hands are really bad, I cannot get anywhere near a fist and my thumb and ring finger just keep locking into place. Do I need to should out for help or just wait for the next appointment. Feeling anxious

Comments

  • Brynmor
    Brynmor Member Posts: 1,755

    Hi @julespa welcome to the Online Community, good to have you here. Not a burden in the least! 😃

    I understand that you saw your doctor last March and he put you forward for a course of injections. You haven't yet heard back yet about any arrangements and the pain in your hands is getting much worse.

    It would be appropriate after such a period of time that you should get back to your doctor to enquire what is happening about this and also to detail some of the development of your rheumatoid arthritis since you last saw them.

    There is a really useful general page on Rheumatoid Arthritis on our website that gives some very helpful information:

    https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/


    Plus, there is specific information regarding hand and wrist pain that includes managing the pain and some exercises that you might try to help the joints involved:

    https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/hand-and-wrist-pain/


    Do join in across the Community, give advice and ask questions, or just call in for a chat. It would be good to hear how you get on and what your doctor has to say.

    All best wishes

    Brynmor

  • Lilymary
    Lilymary Member Posts: 1,750

    I agree, it’s fine to follow these things up, and worth mentioning that you’ll take a cancellation

  • julespa
    julespa Member Posts: 4

    Thank you so much for the prompt responses. I suppose I understand the difficulties with seeing patients in the current climate, but I think even I will have to be that burden!! I am happy to be part of this helpful community.

  • frogmorton
    frogmorton Member Posts: 30,026

    Shout out @julespa

    Don't wait any longer it's time they helped you a bit. You are not being a burden 'they' have repeatedly said non-covid health issues should still be being dealt with.

    Do let us know how you get on and Take care

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