Initial appointment

[Harry19]

Hi everyone

I’m still awaiting my initial appointment with the consultant . What can I expect on my first visit ?

I have a weird sensation in my chest area . Can’t say it’s pain as such but It’s there always . Is this an odd symptom ?

[Hidden]

Hi Harry. Your initial appointment will depend a lot on the consultant. Mine was 8 years ago this month and he ran through my history, examined all my joints for swelling and range of motion, sent me for more specific blood tests and said he would see me back at clinic in 4 months time. I was a bit disappointed as 4 months seemed a long time to me back then. Nowadays 4 months would be a relatively short wait!

You could take an A4 typed sheet with main symptoms in bullet points and any questions such as which medications to use, how long to be seen again, request physio referral or others.

If you have photos of rashes and swollen joints these would be very useful to have available to show on a tablet or iphone.

Re the weird chest sensation - can you try to be more specific about where in your chest, tightness, vibration, tremor, palpitation, when breathing in or out etc. If you are extra tense or anxious then perhaps it could be this - or gastritis or heart burn perhaps as these make my chest ache or give me a gnawing sensation. Try to pin down the words that describe it best when reporting it during your consultation. Best of luck 🤞🏻🙂

[Boudica1]

Have you told your GP about the problem with your chest? They can at least exam you order an x-ray and tests if needed. Don't fall into the trap of thinking everything is because of Lupus or Sjogren's as other problems can arise that have nothing to do with the diagnosed disease you may have.

As for the first Rheumy appointment you should have a thorough examination and be asked questions and maybe more blood tests and anything else that they may want to help with exactly what is going on.

It may be useful for them if you have a list of all your symptoms you are having and for yourself a small list of questions. I don't know about you but without my little question list I've often in the past kicked myself because I suddenly realised that I hadn't asked something that I wanted to know about.

Good luck.

X