Good News - and Outstanding Questions

[Head2Toe]

My Rheumy's office called yesterday to set up a conference call for today.  My lip biopsy was March 30th - so talk about fast service!

My lip biopsy results were negative.  The Rheumy said they got an 'excellent' sample that left no question that I do not have Sjogren's.  Obviously, I was very happy with that news!

He also said that although my neck x-ray film had been requested from my doctor, it had not yet been provided.  He said if there is anything I can do to speed things along - he would appreciate it.     Yikes.  That's not a good reflection on my doctor.

Although the story is not over, I am satisfied with the results thus far (perhaps more-so because I feel really well right now).  The PPI (Tecta) seems to be working.  My tummy has really settled down, only one night of coughing and choking (self-inflicted and a good lesson to follow the ENT's instructions), and the post nasal drip has noticeably decreased   Who knew laryngeal reflux could create such havoc?  But I am still anxious to know what's causing my other issues - e.g. balance, vertigo, tinnitus.  I also want to know whether my neck is at the root of my rib and arm pain, tingling, and array of other mysterious symptoms.  If so - what can I do about it?  If not - I guess I'll wait until I get sick again to kick up another fuss   

[Suslew]

That's great news!

[katie1111]

Ask your doctor for copies of your x-rays and hand carry them.  I always try to hand carry any reports, films, etc when I go to a doctor other than the one who ordered the test.  The staff at the doctor's office say they will send the x-rays, etc. and sometime they do - but not usually.  Thanks to computers, many of these films can be put on a computer disc.

Katie

[Head2Toe]

I wish I had done that Katie.  Unfortunately, even with careful timing it would take us about 4 hours (one way) to get from our home to the Rheumy's office. 

[katie1111]

Contact the doctors office and tell you want copies (keep tract of date, time and who you spoke to).  Find out when they will be mailed.  You will probably have to provide a release of medical records - just a document that you sign in which you authorize the release of your records).  See if you can fax it, and if so, ask who will pick of the fax.  Send the fax, then call and ask for person who was to receive the request and verify that it got there.  Keep after them.  Find out who is responsible and bug them.  I used to be a nurse case manager and believe me the squeaky wheel gets greased.  You do have to keep tract of who you talked and when and what they said.

Good luck,

Katie