how do you get to see a rheumy? how do they help?

tutztutz

hi again,i hear many of u swear by a rheumy,may seen a stupid question by the name but are they just for ra or oa or both? would like to hear more about what they can do for you please and also-

do you have to be reffered,by your gp to see them initionally?
are they just seen by appointments or can u make appointments?
do they perscribe drugs and put you intouch with specalists?

thanks

elnafinn

Hi tutztutz

You are referred to a rheumatologist (rheumy) by your gp or hospital consultant. I was of the opinion that a rheumy looked after RA patients but I have heard people with oa on here go and see one. I have oa and went to one after I had a blood test at my surgery for RA at my consultant's request and it came back positive. He told me that I did not have RA after taking fluid from my knee, saying it was not the correct colour for RA so I never went back to him again. They suggest drugs you should take but whether they write the script, not sure but others will put you right on that. I think they may inform your gp regarding the drugs. Likewise not sure if they put you in touch with specialists. My gp sent me to a rheumy but it may work the other way around.

Hope some of that makes sense,

Elna

frogmorton

Hi Tutz
Love the name by the way.
Rheumatologists deal with people who have lots of different types of Arthritis. PA RA etc. I don't know whether they also see people with OA, but I expect so as some people have more than one type of arthritis.
You generally get referred by your GP, but I am sure you could ask for a referral. I expect that people who can afford it could 'go private' too.
They do prescribe meds yes, things like DMARDs and can refer to other professions such as OTs and Physio, but so can GPs. Often GPs seem reluctant to perscribe some meds and it falls on rheumys to do this.
If you aren't getting the help you need, you should try your GP again. I hope he/she will help you and you get the treatment you need.
Take care
Toni x