First Rhumy appoint....what to expect??

[Dolly84]

I have my first rhumy appoint tomorrow....what should I expect? Is there anything I need to do or ask?

[Hidden]

It's a long time since my first rheumy appointment. Have you been asked for a urine sample? You might be given a blood form to have a blood test. Make notes about how you have been feeling, where you have stiffness or pain and how long it lasts, as you will probably be asked all of those things. This link will take you to a diary you can download and print out.

raunspoken.co.uk/track-tools/

it has suggestions for what questions to ask, and a weekly chart to fill in. It might come in handy.

Good luck.

poemsgalore xx

[HevJ]

I had my appt recently and they were very thorough (Dec 13). Looked and felt all my joints, checked my heart, and listened to all my observation. The reg talked me through it and offered me medication straight away! I was surprised as then it was in one finger and knuckle but my bloods showed something. He gave me a steroid jab there and then which worked over the next few days and my hand was great for the next two months. I then had a flare up March/April and when I had my appt 2 weeks ago, the reg again was very thorough but got the consultant in as I was in a lot of pain and joints inflammed (however not as inflammed, swollen or tender as they had been). Again I felt they listened and asked the questions. My questions were more about the meds, and long term care... Again I was given a steroid jab aid relief as the consultant explained it will take up to 3 months for the meds to work. He also informed me I could have them on the next 2 monthly visits. Tomorrow will be my 3rd lot of mtx. This past week has been easier and I have not felt as nauseous. I have little pain and apart from 2 fingers I have good movement in my joints. Six weeks ago I never would have thought I could feel like this again!

The letter to my Dr was detailed.

Good luck with your appt. if they are as good as the team I went to, am sure you will come out informed and supported. Heather x

[Judetheobscure]

I realise the links below to articles on the NRAS website come too late for your appointment which I hope went well. As there always seems to be so much information to take on board it may be that looking through them will help you to get used to the terms you will be introduced to. There's probably some repetition between the articles but probably worth reading both. If you have any concerns or questions either about the articles or your hospital consultation the NRAS Helpline is very helpful: 0800 298 7650. Best wishes Jude

nras.org.uk/the-patient-jou...

nras.org.uk/getting-the-mos...