Been in pain for months

[Matilda_1922]

I've had pain for quite a few months in my right elbow had an ultra sound scan beginning of September showed inflammation ++++ in another hospital to rheumatology department I'm under. Had appointment 2 weeks later with nurse specialist. Received from registrar of hospital I had US gave me a verbal message to tell them. Wouldn't take it verbally needed to see results on paper. Registrar said would cc hospital to. GPs letter (they referred me in may.

Saw GP last week have had 5 day course of steroids now feel less ke a new person. Steroids finished today.

How long will I feel like this without any adjustment to RA medication.

[oldtimer]

I'm a bit confused by your desire to keep it as brief as possible.

You had a painful elbow and an U/S showed inflammation, but this was at a different hospital.

You have had a 5 day course of steroids from your GP - is that because the usual hospital would not change your treatment without a written report on the U/S?

And I'm not clear whether the steroids helped?

And are you wanting your usual hospital to change your medication?

[Matilda_1922 in reply to oldtimer]

My usual hospital want to receive the results before any further treatment changes.

I've had the problem for months couldn't even comb my hair or dress. I needed help. I can't straighten my elbow either. Felt like it was swollen and pointed this out to consultant in March who just dismissed it. Didn't even assess my joints. Said the swollen area was fatty tissue although didn't look at. I went to my GP in early April who ordered a Xray which didn't show any abnormalty. Suggested MSK who referred for an US which was done in September. So several months in pain.

I called Rheumatology department in June said couldn't do anything as I already had a MSK referral.

[KittyJ]

We can’t know how long you will feel like this I’m afraid 😔 Have you asked your GP if they have received the letter? You could then get a copy to send to your rheumy, or take if you have an appointment soon, if they haven’t received it. It might speed up the waiting for them to be sent it. You shouldn’t have to do this but sometimes needs must.

[Matilda_1922 in reply to KittyJ]

GP has given me a copy which they received about 4 weeks a go and asked to see me. Appointments not very easy to get so took over 2 weeks before I could see them. Have taken copy to hospital but no reply.

[KittyJ in reply to Matilda_1922]

I’d speak to your rheumys secretary and check they have the letter. I had a similar thing happen and when I rang they checked and it was in a pile waiting to be actioned on. At least then you know it’s just a waiting game, which sadly seems to become longer and longer nowadays.

[Matilda_1922 in reply to KittyJ]

I will call tomorrow