Rheumatologist appointment at last!

[Kiwisufferer2019]

My last rheumatologist appointment after ultra sounds on shoulders, and chest xray was postponed due to him being sick. He was most apologetic, but no one can help being sick. So I have tears in Noth left and right shoulder muscles, and I have a slightly enlarged heart. 2 years since I had a heart scare after 2nd covid booster. So back to the cardiologist and orthopedic surgeon about my shoulders. We talked about methotrexate, but he won't try that until the shoulders are sorted he doesn't want to add anything to the mix. In the meantime, after my Aussie holiday I had a flare when I tried to taper, so it's back to go slow, my markers were normal except for the iron I think he said which indicates inflamation. He conceded it was a flare, so that's good, because at the last appointment I don't think he really believed me. All my symptoms were classic PMR sore shoulders and neck, sore thighs and hips. I will say he's very thorough and gives me a thorough going over, pocking and prodding, tests my temples and scalp to make sure no GCA symptoms. Sorry about the ramble, but so frustrated with my progress. 4 years in October since I went on pred. I have been following all of your posts and wish you all well. It's a slow road we tread.Janis

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Not a ramble at all, and sorry to hear about other issues…. but sounds as if you are being taken seriously by Rheumy - which as patients is what we need, but very often lacking.

It can seem a very slow road at times, particularly with everything else in life that we have to contend with [as you well know], but all we can do is just keep plodding on.

Good luck with cardio and ortho appointments - please keep us informed. All the best….

[Kiwisufferer2019 in reply to DorsetLady]

Thanks so much DL. I hope you are as well as can be expected. Janis

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Kiwisufferer2019]

Good thanks……

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Sounds a really good appointment and none of that will have done the PMR much good. Just take it all one step at a time and it will get better - if only that you learn to manage it all better.

[Kiwisufferer2019 in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks pmr pro, patience!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Kiwisufferer2019]

Indeed!

[SheffieldJane]

He sounds pretty good to me - that can be as rare as hen’s teeth - so that’s a big plus.

[Kiwisufferer2019 in reply to SheffieldJane]

He really listened to me this time and I feel much better about everything. Thanks for your reply Jane.