First rheumatologist appointment

[Adalisone]

Hello everyone, I've had my appointment come for my first check up with the rheumatologist, I've tested positive for RA and CcP. I was wondering if you could tell me what to expect for my first check up. Thank you in advance.

[Matilda_1922]

Wear something you can easily take off and put back.

I wasn't prepared for my appointment and had worn dress and tights so struggled with this at my first appointment.

My partner helps me with dressing and undressing as the RA has affected mainly my hands and wrists.

Hope the appointment goes well for you

[Adalisone in reply to Matilda_1922]

Thank you for the advice and well wishes, very distracted with it all at the moment.

[MrsBones123]

Hi Adalisone, if your first time with the rheumatologist is the same as mine was, be prepared to be there a few hours.

They asked lots of questions about symptoms, when they started and which joints hurt, and any other illnesses you have or have had in the past (plus lots of yes/no type questions)

Then undressed and given a very thorough (but gentle) joint examination of every joint and check over of the skin (think they were looking for signs of psoriasis)

Then she asked if I was in pain and gave me depot steroid shot in the rear.

Then sent to Xray for hands and feet and haematology for more blood tests.

I wasn't given a diagnosis until my next appointment, so don't be disappointed if they don't tell you there and then (I thought they would tell me on the day) but they have to be sure, and get results of xrays, bloods etc before they know.

It was quite a tiring day, but good that they're so thorough.

Good luck x

[Adalisone in reply to MrsBones123]

Thank you for the reply and advice. I wish I didn't have to wait so long.

[helixhelix]

One thing to consider is stopping taking naproxen for the week beforehand. Painful i know, but can make it easier in the long term if the rheumatologist can see and feel your joints as they are, and not calmed down with an anti-inflammatory.

Also, take all your notes and results of blood tests with you. Although the rheumatologist should have them, sometimes things don't quite work as they should. Make a list of symptoms and dates and so on, so ready to answer questions.

[Adalisone in reply to helixhelix]

Thank You, I will do that with the naproxen, I've only been taking them for a week.

[Hidden]

Give our helpline a call as they will be able to talk you through what to expect, you can contact them on 0800 2987650 or if it's easier email [e-mail].

Hope this helps. Val, NRAS

[Adalisone in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, I've emailed you.

[helenlw7]

My first appoint was over 10 years ago, but I do remember I was there a long time, was sent for x rays and more blood tests, and also had fluid taken from my ankles. My sister came with me, and this was really useful because she remembered things I'd forgotten, and also took notes which were very useful.