What do I say?!!

[Janann25]

I started a really bad flare yesterday, the first for a LONG time. I rang the rheumatology department at our local hospital because I’m wondering whether it has been triggered by the recent Covid infection together with the antiviral infusion I had. A nurse called me back and asked “where is the swelling?” I explained never had swelling. So she then asked me what pain killers I was taking. I gently said that pain killers wouldn’t work with PMR but she disagreed and said to take them anyway! Again I said it wasn’t necessary and asked - again very gently - whether perhaps she was new to PMR. WHOOPS - definitely the wrong question!! Anyway, she then said she would speak to a doctor and call me again. And so, I’m still waiting.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Fills you full of confidence doesn’t it! Not 😳

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Oh dear! Someone to bodyswerve I think!

If you want some more sensible analysis: I wouldn't be surprised if it were the Covid that has triggered it although I can't think of a good reason why the antiviral infusion would contribute, but who knows. Of course - it has been noted that many cases of Long Covid bear a great resemblance to various autoimmune things, and PMR symptoms get a lot of mention.

[Janann25 in reply to PMRpro]

Just had a phone call to say doctor wants me that have a blood test but that won’t be until tomorrow 😡. In the meantime, I’ve decided that I’ll double my dose tonight and hope that that helps. Talk about DIY treatment!!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Janann25]

Will still be better than that nurse managed!

[MrsNails]

I know - sometimes you don’t want to ask because you know your not going to like the answer 🤦🏻My Lovely DrLim (RIP) always wanted a Blood Test if l felt there were any changes so she had something to go on.

At my old Surgery you could pop in any morning before 10.30 & get your bloods done (after that it was appts only) it was a great system!

[Janann25 in reply to MrsNails]

I’m going to try being positive and hope that the blood test and result happens soon - but I’m not actually that hopeful because there’s a wait of about 3 weeks for an appointment at the surgery. I’m hoping she’ll get me one at the hospital instead.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Janann25]

By which time more pred will probably have calmed it down anyway.

[Janann25 in reply to PMRpro]

Oh so true😉

[SheffieldJane]

Good for you! We get too much flannel.

[MiloCollie]

Ooooo. Touchy. That’s just what I expected from my rheumy nurse but luckily got a very knowledgeable expert. I suppose you could ask to speak to a different nurse or even a doctor. It’s hard because we’re supposed to trust them. Good luck xx

[whitefishbay]

So many sensitive souls out there nowadays.