Can anyone give me advice?

[carolyn.s]

I have my first appointment with a Rhuematologist this Wed. Can anyone give me any advice as to what will happen or what I should bring up to speed up a diagnosis? I have been feeling terrible for over 2 years now. I really need to make the most out of this appointment because this Dr. is in Lansing and I live in Grand Rapids MI. Any advice would be appreciated. style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Thanx.gif Carolyn

[liveseymum]

Hi Carolyn,

My best advice would be to write down all of your symptoms and show him the list, even if at that time that particular symptom isnt present.

It is also a good idea to take a list of any questions you may have.

Good luck.

Tracy.

[alobreto]

Hi, Carolyn! style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif
Tracy has given you good advice. style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif

Write down your symptoms and label them past and present. Write down any autoimmune illnesses in your family tree such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, scleroderma, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and so on.

Be sure to check the pinned posts at the top of this forum . There is much valuable information there that will help with your lists.

Try to keep the information to 1 page total in not too tiny print to avoid overwhelming the doc on the first visit. There will be time later for more details.

Also write down your (no more than 5) most pressing questions so you don't forget what you want to ask when you are in the exam room.

If you can it's also a good idea to take someone with you to be an extra witness to help recall what happens while you're there. Things can go by quickly and two heads really can be better than one.

I wish you the best at your visit!
Angela style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/flowers.gif

[carolyn.s]

Thanks for the suggestions, I am very nervous the big day is tomorrow. I made a list of all my symptoms, I hope I can finally get some answers, I'ts been a long road for me, (I have been sick for about 7 years) Anyway thanks again. style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/foryou.gif carolyn

[JazzGirl]

Dear Carolyn:

I just wanted to say good luck! I will be thinking about you. I know how frustrating waiting and wondering can be. We are in the same boat my friend!

Love,
Liza style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif