First rheumatologist appointment

[Elishaannxx]

I got my letter this morning for my first rheumatologist appointment I’m abit nervous as I don’t know what to expect and I don’t know what to ask, can anybody help me out please xx

[Hidden]

Don’t be too nervous - just try to prepare yourself really well. Things that will help are a single A4 typed sheet of bullet point symptoms. Some consultants or registrars don’t like these but most of mine have been rather pleased when I am organised and can give them the sheet to keep.

Also if you have good photos of rashes or swollen joints, or both, you could take an iPad or mobile along with these ready to show them.

I really hope it goes well for you.

Twitchy

[Elishaannxx in reply to Hidden]

Thankyou and yes I have a piece of paper with all my symptoms and I have photos of my rashes and that Thankyou xxx

[Hidden in reply to Elishaannxx]

That’s great - and don’t forgot to bring a pee sample with you even if it hasn’t been requested. Please let us know how you get on 🤞🏽😊

[Elishaannxx in reply to Hidden]

Yeah Thankyou, it said in the letter to take one Thankyou and of course I will let you know xx

[whisperit]

Hello again Leeshalou123

Like Twitchytoes says, it's nothing to worry about. S/he will go through some standard questions and some simple examinations like feeling your hands for joint swelling. You'll probably need to have blood taken and maybe a urine test.

They will ask about your medical history, especially things like your rash (if you have any photos from when it was bad, that would be good), so if you can go in with some key dates written down beforehand that might help.

The main thing is to make sure you get to ask about the things that most bother you. Try to get them to explain so that you leave there feeling you understand what might be going on.

My final tip would be to repeat back to them what they are proposing as a plan for monitoring and treating you - who is going to be in charge of looking after you? When will you hear from them next?

Hope it goes well x

[Elishaannxx in reply to whisperit]

Thankyou so much xxx

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi Elishaannxx ,

Good luck with your upcoming appointment. If you want any tips on preparing for it, please take a look at our article here - lupusuk.org.uk/getting-the-...

Please let us know how you get on.

[Elishaannxx in reply to Paul_Howard]

Thankyou and I will do, I’m very nervous not sure what to expect xxxx