Hello everyone, I posted my first post a couple of months ago about being referred to rheumatology as I had 2 positive tests. Thank you for welcoming me to the forum.
I was supposed to have my appointment a couple of weeks ago and the hospital cancelled it I’ve now got a new appointment for next Thursday at a different hospital, I’m getting a little bit anxious over it as I don’t know what to expect, can you tell me what is likely to happen at this appointment please? My daughter is coming with me for support and to hopefully remember things that I forget.
I’ve started to write down the joints etc that hurt and any swellings etc , is that a good idea?
Should I write some questions out if so what should I ask ?
My hair has started to fall out over the last 2 months, my hairdresser noticed a small bald patch on the back of my head which wasn’t there on my last appointment with her so it’s appeared since December, Now my hair is falling out, I had my hair done last week and she remarked how thin it had become. Could this be connected to my possible diagnosis of RA, I spoke to my doctor about it and he wasn’t interested and just dismissed it.
Thank you
Prepare for a bit of waiting around....usually you have weight and blood pressure checked by a nurse first, plus you may be asked to give a urine sample. The rheumatologist may also want to examine you, so have clothes every you can get on and off easily, and best underwear!
Have your list of questions, and any notes about blood tests from your GP in case your file has been lost (it happens...), as well as your notes about symptoms. If you are taking anti-inflammatorys at the moment it's a good idea to stop 3 or 4 days beforehand so the rheumy can see you at your worst.
But most rheumies are nice people, and do realise how awful a possible diagnosis is for us, so do feel you can ask anything.
Often you won't get a diagnosis there and then, but may be sent off for x-rays and blood tests (more waiting around) with a follow up appointment in a few weeks. However if you have obvious pain, inflammation and joint swelling you might be offered a steroid injection to calm things down.
All in all it could well take two hours or so, even the appointment with the reheumy will only be about 15 - 20 Minutes.
Hope you get a good rheumy....
Thank you for your reply, I will now be prepared to be there quite awhile.