Not getting the whole picture.
Dr's don't tell you all the difference things that come with RA and you have to do a lot of research on your own to find everything. Anyone else feel this way?
Hi,
! It's good to 'see; you again! I hope things are going well for you.
As far as your observation; I think you're on to something.
Whether it's because doctors don't know about all the possible issues or they don't want to overwhelm their patients or they just don't think they have the time in an appointment to address each possible link to a health problem and RA, I don't know.
But still, having to do your own research is just one more task to add to an already lengthy list when you are living with a chronic condition like RA.
Best, Erin, Team Member.
, this is an interesting observation. I think a few things factor into the equation. Patient load is getting higher. Doctors spend less time with us. In addition, RA looks different on everybody.
We moved across the county 10 years ago and at my first appointment with a new rheumatologist I declared that I was done with being on Humira, methotrexate and steroids. By then 5 of my joints had been replaced so I said, "Can't I just replace the stuff that wears out? I'm sick of treatment that doesn't work." I admit that I was being ridiculous but I thought it was worth running up the flagpole 😀
My comment was met with a stern listing of what RA could do to my internal organs and eyes, something I tried to avoid thinking about.
This doctor is still my rheumatologist. He is cautious, caring and vigilant to any new health issue, even my dental care. He is also clearly under the stress of a high patient load as my appointments are getting shorter.
I have read your post here and I am so sorry that your disease process has been really tough. I wish you much better!, you bring up a lot of good points and I always appreciate your wisdom and empathy for everyone, from doctors to patients to anyone else. You have a way of trying to "walk a mile in others' shoes" and I think that's a pretty awesome trait!
Thanks for joining the conversation here!
Best, Erin, Team Member.
I can definitely understand why you’d feel that way. There’s so much that comes with RA, and it can feel overwhelming trying to learn everything on your own. That’s exactly why this space exists! It’s a great place for people to share what they’ve learned, ask questions, and help each other feel a little more prepared along the way. We're truly all in this together. Kindly, Latoya (Team Member)
