Hi,I'm a newbie

hunnyboo17

Hi my name is Jackie and I'm new to the forum.
I'm 59 years old and have suffered from polyarthritis since I was 41.I also have osteoarthritis in both hips (accelerated by a spinal trauma caused by a bad fall),spine,hands and knees. My Rheumy has recently termed the diagnosis as Seronegative Arthropathy.I also have achilles tendonitis (swollen ankles) and signs of bone deformaties in some of my toes.Due to taking Arthrotec and Ibuprofen for years I developed multiple duodenal ulcers (stomach) and now I am not allowed to take any anti-inflammatory meds whatsoever,so have to rely totally on co-codomol for the pain.
I must admit I have little faith in my Rheumy.He's an ordinary GP with an 'interest' in rheumatology who helps out occasionally at the local hospital rheumy department. Am I entitled to ask to see a fully fledged Rheumatologist Consultant? Has anyone on this forum had a similar situation or had to ask for a second opinion on their diagnosis and subsequent treatment?
Just to add that it's great to be on a forum where so much support and compassion is shown to others dealing with arthritis and related conditions.

suzster

i don't have experience in this but i would say if, like you sound you aren't happy with you current rheumy then yes ask for a 2nd opinion.
i'm sure others can help youu more though as i'm fairly new to this to.
sue

colinone

Hi Jackie, Well you certainly have had a lot to cope with and I hardly know what to say to you I suffer with RA and PA so I cant comment on your illness but thought I would pop in and say hello. it souds as though your a bit down and no wonder.
It seems your in a bit of a hard place with your rheumy and I would have thought with the problems you have you will have no problem in seeing the consultant. There are a couple of things you can do, tell him the truth and ask him to refer you to the consultant, next time you got to the hospital clinic ask the receptionist can you see another doctor or telephone the consultants secretary and discuss the situation with them. You could discuss it with your GP tell him how worried and concerned you are and ask him to refer you to a consultant. I attend the Rheumy clinic every six weeks, there are normally two consultants but one is off sick but several other doctors also do the clinic. I’m sure they are good doctors but I always tell the receptionist who I want to see. I would perhaps have a good chat with your GP first and see what he thinks. It’s a difficult one and at times you have to ask if you don’t ask you don’t get. The other thing is the worry and extra stress the situation places you in is no good for you and certainly wont help your condition. Take Care Jackie and keep your chin up.
Colin

nearlybionic

Hi Jackie
welcome to the forum, I hope you find it a great source of info and support. I have OA, and have had a THR recently, so can`t really advise on your conditions. However as Colin has said , I would have thought you are well within your rights to ask for a second opinion, either by asking at the clinic or by talking to your gp.
Take care
NB

eckstardeluxe

Hi Jackie, welcome to the Forum. This place has helped me loads to come to terms with my illness. I have OA so can't really help you but as others have said I'd ask for another opinion, you are entitled to and they will give you it. Best wishes x

woodbon

Hello, welcome to the site.
I hope you find it helpful and gain support from it, I know I do! I can't add anything to what the others have said - I too think you can ask for a second opinion. I think most hospitals have a Patient Leiason Officer or PALS, they can help you with any problems you have concerning your doctor or treatment. If your hospital has a Web site, it should be listed. If you ring them, I'm sure they will tell you your rights in confidence. Hope you get sorted out in the end Sue

hunnyboo17

woodbon wrote:

Hello, welcome to the site.
I hope you find it helpful and gain support from it, I know I do! I can't add anything to what the others have said - I too think you can ask for a second opinion. I think most hospitals have a Patient Leiason Officer or PALS, they can help you with any problems you have concerning your doctor or treatment. If your hospital has a Web site, it should be listed. If you ring them, I'm sure they will tell you your rights in confidence. Hope you get sorted out in the end Sue

Thankyou all so much for your warm welcome and helpful replies.I will ask my GP to refer me to a consultant rheumy for another opinion on my condition.
kindest regards
Jackie x

lindalegs

Hi Jackie,

Glad you've decided.

Just wanted to say hello and welcome to posting.

Luv Legs

yesmeducky

A warm welcome Jackie.

Heidi