Tips for Rheumy Appts

Going to your first rheumatologist appointment is unlike any other doctor appointment most of us have ever had.  Because of the vast number of autoimmune disorders, a lot of information is collected by the doctor.  You can get the most out of your appointment if you are prepared before you go.  Here is a list of things recommended to take with you to your first appointment.

Your complete medical history at a glance
- list diagnosis, procedures, accidents, allergies, etc.
Your family medical history
- if you have aunts, cousins or closer relatives with arthritis or autoimmune illnesses, be sure to include them
Your pain/symptom journal
- if you do not have one, start one.  list details on your pain and on symptoms (even that seem unrelated)
Medication List
- List all drugs and herbs and supplements you take including the name, dosage and frequency.  If you are taking herbal blends, carry the bottle in with you so the doctor can see the ingredient list
MRI/X-ray films
- if any other doctor has ordered these, carry your films in with you.  You can get them from the facility that took them.
Doctor's Medical records
- have your GP or other doctor send over the medical records to the rheumy so they are there before you are
Treating Doctors List
- any doctor who is currently treating you or needs to be kept informed of your progress should be listed along with their address and phone number
Questions
- We all have lots of questions about what is being checked,what we are experiencing etc.  Write them down and....
Take Paper and Pen
- this way you can note what the answers were to your questions and capture important info the doctor may give you over the course of a visit.  Do not be afraid to ask him/her to repeat or spell something.  Your notes may provide data you have forgotten later.
If Possible, take someone with you
- this will also help you remember instructions and information provided by your doctor

[eternalsunshine]

thank you!

[gooftroopleader]

i have only been seeing a rheumatologist for less than a year.  He said I have elevated cardio lipids.  What does that mean?

[txsilver]

Honestly, this is not my area of expertise.  I know fats are considered lipids and that there are good and bad lipids.  I suggest you talk to your rheumatologist and find out if yours are a concern and seek a referral if necessary.

[krikket]

While it's true that the appointments are like none other, I do have one thing to add -- they listen, better than another kind of doctor I've ever seen, and I've seen a good number of them over the years..lol.  It was also the first time I felt like someone actually listened.  It takes me 4 months to get an appointment, but she's so worth it I can't stand the idea of giving her up.

[txsilver]

I am glad you have had such great experiences!  I had 1 who did not listen but my current one is fab.  Makes all the difference in the world if you have great communication with your rheummy - thanks for adding!

[krikket]

Thanks so much for your kind welcome.  I'm looking forward to being a part of this group.

[ringbags]

I have consistant pain in both of my knees due to Arthritis and cartalage damage. In addition, I have a Bakers Cyst in the back of my right knee. About three years ago I had Ortho on my right knee but after the rehab still had the same limit of motion in that knee (Nothing was done with the Cyst). I am looking for a study or trial that uses the body to repair the damage. Is there such a thing using Stem Cells?

[Ruthiebear]

I wish I saw this post before I went yesterday!  But I did bring along my husband and he did a lot of talking for me/
Only thing the had you fill out forms before coming that answer most of what you said to bring.
For me I don't have recent x-rays to have bought with me.  She order some of my knees and hands yesterday.
She also had them draw blood for more tests, and to see if I have RA too.
I felt she was good listener and knew a lot.  
I go back in 2 months.  And she said it will take 10 days to find out about my blood tests.
I just don't understand why RA is worse then OR?

[txsilver]

Glad you had a good appt.  I think I addressed why RA is worse/different than OA in one of your other posts.
The nice thing about having all of these things documented before you go is, on the paper work you are handed, you can write, "see attachment" and provide a copy of your own notes.  This greatly helps those of us whose hands are affected.  You would be surprised at how much my doctors love that the data is all there.  I even created a section for current issues, questions and new symptoms so that I do not forget anything.  My rheumy actually said to me that he wished all of his patients would do this.  

[windy854]

the doctor I go to doesn't take much time to hear me out. You're lucky if your's does. I only see my doctor's at the rheumatology clinic every few months and it's always a different doc.  Thank you for the info it's good info. I think I need to go to a different clinic




'I think I will"

[meubanks09]

Thank You for posting this. I have been seeing my PCP, and she indicated I tested positive for Parvovirus B19, but negetive for any Autoimmune Diseases. She did indicate that if I continue to expierience Joint Pain for more than a few more weeks, she would refer me to a Rhuemetologist. I will make note of everything you listed above. I hope the Rhuemy she refers me to is as good as yours :).

[txsilver]

Glad this has been helpful to you all!  Sometimes it takes a few visits before you find the right doc for you.  That is true for any doc, not just rheumy's.  One of the gifts that comes from dealing with all of these health issues is that you become a more active participant in your health care by advocating for yourself.  You become more knowledgable, too, by necessity.  Hang in there and remember you deserve to be heard and treated with respect!