Had doctors appointment oh boy she wants me off steroids ASAP

[Blackcat1M]

Well had a chat with my GP this morning.

She thinks it’s the steroids making me like I am, and is going to ask my rheumatologist to get me off them asap, also she’s going to ask him I can have a test for my Adrenal Glands as well.

She said how long is it since you saw him I said a year, not happy about that.

I tried to tell her you can not come off steroids quickly, “oh she said you can”

Even OH bless him said I know you have to wean yourself off them, look what’s happened with my eyes because a moron knew best at the eye clinic.

I came away thinking what a waste of time 😒😒

[piglette]

I really begin to wonder if these people really trained in medicine.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Hope she can offer you details of a safe speedy reduction for a long term steroid user!!!!

[Blackcat1M in reply to PMRpro]

I took my sheet that I use to taper my steroids oh what’s that she said I explained none the wiser was she.

What chance have I got should have stayed at home and asked your advice ,what have got better information.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Blackcat1M]

Dear lord ... Glad she isn't my doctor!!!!

[Blackcat1M in reply to PMRpro]

no she’s mine you can’t have her!!!!!!!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Blackcat1M]

Don't blooming want her!!!!!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

oh dear-what a nightmare!

[Charlie1boy]

Oh my goodness. You have my sympathy. She should have pmr, then she might (would) advise very differently!

Good luck

Paddy

[Bcol]

Oh dear, is there not another doctor at the practice you could see? Hopefully your Rheumy may put her right.

[Blackcat1M]

Nearly all the doctors at the surgery are new.

The doctor I saw is a partner there, and she was a bit harrased as her patient before me needed an ambulance , and when it came she was broken off twice as they needed her to print out the lady’s notes etc.

I will wait and see what my rheumatologist says,as it is a year since I last saw him.

[borednow]

Surely if your GP writes to your Rheumatologist and suggests you come off steroids, that will go down like a lead balloon? Adrenal glands test sounds like a good idea though. Can you write to your Rheumy with your concerns? I'm sure he/she would be very interested to hear that you can apparently just come off steroids quickly!! According your GP. Good luck.

[S4ndy]

I think writing to your Rheumatologist is a good idea. I did that and then took a copy of the letter to the appointment and he was all ready with his answers. It allowed me to express my concerns and explain things much better than in a hurried hospital environment. He is a good Rheumatologist though and was very happy to address all my concerns and wrote to my GP with his instructions following our consultation praising me for having written to him. I know I am lucky with a good Rheumatologist but it might help you too.

[Francesbarbara in reply to S4ndy]

I'm in agreement with S4andy. Since all the problems associated with getting GP appts, my husband and I always write a brief summary of what we want to talk about, before seeing the doctor. They seem very happy that it puts them in the picture right away and writing things down means that you don't forget things in the rush of an appt. It certainly saves time. Both patient and GP benefit.

[solomon12]

I would report her- that's just plain dangerous

[Prof99]

I would advise that you write to the Practice Manager to say that you are very concerned with the medical advice you have been given which is contrary to everything you have read and contrary to the Rheumy that you are under. The PM will have to discuss your letter with the lead partner, who will see the error in the advice. Is yours a training practice? It could be you saw a new registra who isn't experienced in steroids! I being kind here - but this is very serious and shouldn't go without comment - for yourself, and for other patients that she may see.