What to mention/show at a rheumatologist appointment

[stephaniejpm]

Hello, I have a rheumatologist appointment on Sunday as my Gp suspects that i have lupus. My symptoms include chest pain urine infections, butterfly rash, headaches feet pain and swelling as well as a list of others. I have written down a list for the rheumatologist of my symptoms as well as a photo of the rash. Was wondering if anyone had any other useful suggestions to either ask or bring from experience TIA

[whisperit]

Hello stephaniejpm

I would read through the LupusUK leaflet on symptoms and diagnosis so that you are familiar with the kinds of things the rheumatologist is likely to be looking for.

lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

Otherwise, my main suggestion would be to make sure you ask whatever questions you need to go away with a clear understanding of what the rheumy thinks is going on, and what the next steps will be. Good luck - and do let us know how it goes x

[Kevin53]

Great advice. Relax and if necessary hand over your written questions. Best wishes Kevin

[Chanpreet_Walia LUPUS UK]

Hi stephaniejpm,

How did your appointment go?

Taking notes and visual aids to an appointment is a great idea! We published an article on our blog which discusses what you can do to get the most from your medical appointments; I hope you can use the tips and information provided for any future appointments lupusuk.org.uk/getting-the-...

Around 90% to 95% of people with lupus will experience muscle and/or joint pain. We published an article on our blog about pain management which you can read here: lupusuk.org.uk/pain-managem...

Skin involvement is common in lupus, with 60-70% of people with lupus reporting some skin problem. Rashes can be induced by sunlight as well as other factors which are discussed in our ‘Lupus and the Skin’ guide; lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

Many people with lupus experience a flare of their symptoms when exposed to sunlight. The most common symptom is for rashes to appear on the skin, affecting areas that are frequently exposed such as the face, neck, hands and feet. We published an article on our blog about coping with light sensitivity which you may like to read here: lupusuk.org.uk/coping-with-...