Encouraging rheumy visit

[Marijo1951]

I saw my consultant on Wednesday for the first time in over a year - for the previous 3 appointments I'd seen one of the registrars. I told her I was in the process of tapering from 8 mg pred per day to 7 mg without any obvious drawbacks apart from some minor PMR symptoms at first. She told me to get down to 6 or 7 mg, whichever works best, at my own pace, using any form of slow reduction. I didn't even have to bring up the idea of alternating doses etc, she mentioned it all herself. I was close to asking her if she reads this forum, but I thought it might seem a bit of a cheek! She said there was no need to go back (barring emergencies) for another 6 months. Of course, when I went to the desk to make an appointment, it was the NHS version of 6 months that prevailed, so my next appointment is in January, but that's fine by me.

I feel very encouraged by this visit as she treated me like an intelligent adult who can be trusted to manage her own treatment. It also made me optimistic that I might be on the home stretch with regard to these unwelcome ailments, though I won't get too hopeful as I had a relapse before after feeling almost well for 3 months.

I should add that for 10 days until yesterday I was cat-sitting for a friend who was away. This involved sleeping overnight at her place and travelling back and forth the couple of miles between her home and mine during the day. A year ago I wouldn't have contemplated doing it but, although it was very fatiguing, I was able to do it and actually enjoyed myself, partly I think because it was a break from my rather limited routine. Of course, the fact that Harry the cat and I get on very well helped.

[Hidden]

That's all good. It makes you feel so much less stressed doesn't it. Btw it's the end of may now so not that far from 6 months! 🐈

[pinks33]

Cats can be calming little souls. I do miss mine. I had cats for nearly 30 years until 5 years ago, when my little Sammie died aged 21 and I just couldn't bring myself to replace him. Very pleased to hear you have found a rheumy who reassures you that you are in good hands. Good luck with your ongoing pred reduction and may it be flare free.

[Marijo1951 in reply to pinks33]

I feel a bit bereft without a cat of my own, but I live in a second-floor flat and I can't come to terms with the idea of having a wholly indoor cat. To me it seems to defy nature although I know that many cats seem happy with that kind of arrangement, including my youngest daughter's two cats in Brooklyn. Seeing how Harry is free to come and go only seemed to confirm my feelings.

[pinks33 in reply to Marijo1951]

I know how you feel. When I bought this house some 30 years ago, top of my list of must haves was that it was cat friendly, with garden and not on a main road. Funny how they rule our lives, isn't it?

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Good to hear!

[Jackoh]

All sounds encouraging- especially having a consultant who listens and understands!!

[Marijo1951 in reply to Jackoh]

Too right and she has a sense of humour too.

[altywhite]

It's always good to hear about a rheumy who seems so sensible!! It makes you feel less stressed too. Sounds like Harry worked a bit of magic too. Good luck and keep well.

[Marijo1951 in reply to altywhite]

Thank you and the same good wishes to you.