crazy appointment-overwhelmed | Arthritis Information

So, had my followup with the pain dr. regarding the botox injections. I had called on Monday to let him know that I am having the crazy chest pain, shortness of breath, and tightness again. I have had chronic costochondritis (sp?) for years. He has been giving me injections. The nurse said that he could fit me in at th end of the day for injections, but to see the PA for the appointment. Love him...

Anyway, He saw me walking back and I guess I didn't look too hot. He told the PA that he would see me for the appointment as well, but he wanted her in there to hear and "interesting case". Is that a compliment?

He is not happy with the chest. He could feel the inflammation around the sternum. I also told him how I have to "pop" my chest when the pressure gets really bad. Otherwise I can't get a deep breath. That really concerned him. He is worried that the sternum is breaking down. I asked him what the long term issues would be, and he didn't really have an answer. I am to be scheduled for a heart echo and lung function test. I go back next week for more injections under xray. He also sent me home with an inhaler and a few new anti -inflammatories,   One is called Indocin. Any experience out there???

Needless to say,we spent about 5 min on the jaw. I feel bad for whoever had the appointment after me. He spent close to 45min with me, doing injections and talking. He told me he was worried but we would work on the problem. I have been seeing him for years so I appreciate his honesty. I just get so frustrated. I look up everything I can with RA and the chest, sternum, or chest wall, and I just don't find anybody else with this problem to this degree. I don't want anybody else to join my club...but it is lonely.

End on a good note....Tomorrow is the last day with kids...Whooo Hoooo Oh Rebecca- I really feel for you. I'm so sorry these problems keep mounting up. I've been having a lot of troubles (non-RA related) for over a month and was just feeling overwhelmed. Then I read this post and it puts a new perspective for myself in my mind.
You're in my prayers for relief and answers. Enjoy your summer off! You do take off right? Hope you don't have to work a summer job to make ends meet.
Rebecca, girl...  Roccy, that sounds so difficult for you to live with, and the uncertainty about the future makes it scary and yes, knowing nobody else with your symptoms makes it lonely. Although about the last one, there must be others with sternum and chest problems from RA, you just can't be the only one!  I've been on display as an interesting case before too, when in hospital... sort of embarrassing but very validating that it is real.