First Appointment with New Rheumy: help with checklist pls!

[joyous]

Hi Guys,

I have my first appointment with my new Rheumy tomorrow, at Hammersmith Hospital(london,uk). I am a bit anxious as Im worried about getting disappointed etc, as its kinda like a fresh start. My last rheumy cause me alot of frustration and disappointment, so left them atlast. My friend who has Lupus recommended me to Hammersmith hospital as they have a dedicated ward for lupus and other auto-immune conditions which is great. Hopefully someone will actually know what they are talking about...

My first appointment at my last rheumy was in 2004, and i cant remember much of it. I remember though that it was about 10mins max (or less), she didnt really examine me, and hence the time spent with me, didnt ask that many questions. So I am kinda not sure what I should be expecting at my appointment tomorrow. I'm guessing as its my first visit at this hospital, they will do a full examination. As i never got that before, what exactly does it involve? Also, what kind of things shall I bring, or remember to mention. I am trying to make a checklist of stuff, so that I can be properly prepared. Although I know the day before is pretty last minute, but thats typical me :s...

I would be very grateful if everyone could help me make a recommended list of things to do/say/bring etc, and also what i should expect them to ask or do..

Many many thanks in advance.

Joyous x

[Scottietottie]

Hi Joyous 

I hope you have a good appointment tomorrow. I don't think, in the UK, we have the same time allotted as in the US, wherever we go. My first appointment was longer than subsequent ones though. My rheumy already had blood results that an endocrinologist had ordered. He asked me for a run down of symptoms and without further examination decided that although my blood test suggested lupus, I had SjS based on symptoms.  He examined my joints. One knee was swollen so he gave me a cortizone injection. (Turned out it was OA - not lupus or SjS - but the jab helped a bit for a while anyway.)
He sent me to a junior doc to do a Schirmer's test. He asked me if I had any questions, prescribed Plaquenil, painkillers and eye drops and sent me on my way.

I would certainly make a list of your symptoms before you go and try to remember, note down, how long they've been going on for. I'd also write a list of questions and actually work your way through them and write down the answers.

I don't think you really need to bring anything specific with you. The appointment letter usually tells you to, if that's required.

Good luck! keep us posted.

Take care - Scottie 

[Bonnie]

Hi Scottie

good advice, I always take lists of symptoms and how long they have been happening for, and a note of any questions I want to ask.  When you have brain fog you need to do this.  Funny experience last time I went to the opthamologist.  Went prepared with my list (put it on a small bit of paper this time)  had some tests done on my eyes for corneal abrasions, also had the drops that dilate pupils, I could not even find the list in my bag far less read anything (ha ha) had to give the consultant my notes and she read them and then I explained.  Next time I go I will write my notes on A3 paper in really big writing.