confused by new rheumatologist
She says my hand pain, wrist pain, dry inflamed eyes, flu-like feelings, low grade fevers, fatigue are not RA related because my blood work doesn't support that I am experiencing inflammation. Even my lymph nodes in my throat get sore - always have - when I am flaring and she says that's not RA related either. Does this make sense?
i should add - i have a diagnosis of ra and have for almost 10 years
28fttyb,
Thank you for starting this new topic on our forums! We are sorry to hear that you are confused by your new rheumatologist. It is possible that a flare won’t show up on test results. I thought you may be able to relate to this article on bloodwork testing: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/testing-testing-1-2-3/
Also, if you are not thrilled with your current doctor, many people in our community find it helpful to get a second opinion-- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/finding-excellent-doctors/
Best,
Jillian (RA.net Team)I know it is stressful and difficult to find another doctor. I have done it once and I am considering doing it again, but you are certainly suffering enough without having to hear such nonsense. One thing I have found helpful is to write a short essay about how your illness began and what has happened to you since. Give this to your doctor to read and put in your file so that you are both on the same page (no pun intended). Also, be sure to always get copies of all tests and records and keep them organized. Once when I mentioned to my first rheumatologist that I had just read an article that stated that men in pain were taken more seriously than women his response was, "Well, women are good at dissimulating." I should have known right then to leave his practice because since I now have all my records from our four years together, I see that he was always dissimulating in an effort to find out if I was faking my symptoms and pain. I think the most important thing for patients with an often invisible disease like RD is to have a doctor who trusts and believes you. Take this to heart and don't let a doctor beat you up like that.
Hi Janlorraine ~
That's great advice for staying organized - which will help you become a better advocate for yourself as a patient! There's some interesting research out there about women being taken less seriously than men in a medical setting. I'm actually working on an article about it now, so keep your eyes on the site and hopefully I'll be able to share it soon! Thanks for helping others find the strength to stand up for themselves.
Best!
~Mariah~
