I'm headed to my very first rheumatologist appointment after being diagnosed with RA a few weeks back by an internal medicine doctor I went to see after months of stiffness/pain (yes, I realize probably should have acted quicker). I'm on Naproxen (NSAID) now and have been for a while for multiple other things they found before they realized it was RA. I've did some basic research on what RA is and some types of drugs they generally try along with reading some of the posts here (which scared the crap out of me in some cases by the way) and I feel like I'm pretty much ready, but I wanted to ask people that had been through it. Is there anything I should be asking the doctor next week? Anything I want to make sure to bring with me? Any websites I should take a look at for more info? Basically I'm just saying hi and being that I'm a research and forum nut, you'll probably be seeing a lot of me as I figure out what to do. Anyone have an inspiring story of how they found the RA, got on a medication that worked quickly and lived happily ever after with no side effects? (yes, that is secretly what I'm hoping for but realize is probably not realistic, but I figured it couldn't hurt to ask :) I'm a very active 26-year old and this has just sucked the last 6 months when it was bad but with hindsight I guess I first noticed symptoms about a year ago. I know, I know, positive attitude and I'm well aware that it could be much worse.
Hi there, welcome to the board, you are among many friends here.Make a list of questions to take to the Rheumy about bloodworks, medications anf problems you are having, maybe even keep a diary until you see him, this gives him/her an idea of any thing he may need to talk to you about.
I have been on lots of the usual medications in the last 10 years but as i seem to be allergic to meds in general i didnt have a good response BUT a lot of people on here have had great results. It can be very confusing but try not to worry too much.Some meds work straight away and there are no side effects at all.it is a matter of trial and error which can be hard on the sufferer but you will get there in the end.You will get days when you are feeling low, THATS OK. We all get down and have enough, thats when you come on here and shout loudly...also,
and interesting (and easy) book to read is The New Arthritis
Breaktrhrough by Henry Scammell. It's good you are a researching
type---they tend to fare better with these mysterious diseases.
PS---please don't be afraid of what you read here. Many people with RA
have it under control and are leading full and varied (if somewhat
modified) lives.
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