Help Needed in Wisconsin | Arthritis Information

Hello all!

I have been to 2 nightmare appointments about my consistent (2
years) bilateral morning joint pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.
Both general doctors I have seen have chalked it up to working too
much.

However, I know that isn't true--I know something is wrong with my
body. I'm posting this here because I am afraid I have RA.

I live in Kenosha, Wisconsin and would love it if anyone could give
me the name of a good doctor I can see who will believe me. Thanks
in advance!2 years!? Wow...so sorry!! Could you possibly ask your general Dr. for a referral? I'm in Iowa, so I couldn't tell you a Dr in WI, sorry.

Years ago I suffered in silence because I knew what was wrong with me. I have a family history and showed many of the same symptoms but didn't have health insurance. I didn't want to be dx'ed before I had insurance because I didn't want the dreaded "pre-exsisting" condition label to go with it.

Finally I did see two GP's and one I didn't mention anything about arthritis or anything. Just told him my symptoms. WELL; no help there at all......after I got the second "You're under a lot of stress" advice after no further test or anything I decided I'd refer myself to an RD. I have BCBS and they do not require a referral to see a specialist. When I finally got into see an RD she said "What took you so long to come here?" She dx'ed me with RA before any of the x-rays or Labs had come back from the lab. When you find a doctor that knows what they are looking at it won't take as long to get the help you need.

You need to see a Rheumatologist (RD for short here). If your insurance doesn't require a referral you're all set. Just look it up in your providers book and pick one out. If it does require a referral tell your GP you insist on seeing one. What can they say? No? Not likely.

Good Luck to you. Hang in there. There are so many just like you that take a very long time to get to the bottom of their problems. I hope you'll soon find the help you need.

Good news! I took your advice, and asked for a referral this
afternoon. I will be seeing a rheumatologist on June 11th. Hopefully
the 3rd time's a charm! It is just nice to know that this board exists
for support. Thanks to everyone!Glad it worked out Natty. Lovie, I tried to get into a Rheumie on my own as I don't need an insurance referral. Not one Rheumie would take me unless a GP sent me there and had enough tests, etc. that points towards an auto-immune disease. Must be because of the shortage? After I had my GP's results who said I needed to see a Rheumie ASAP, the local (within an hour distance) Rheumies all wanted my blood results and they would decide if they would take me.

Natty!!! I live 35 minutes north of Kenosha!!! I KID YOU NOT!!!! I sent you a very important PM about a rheumatologist in this area. I put in there all the info about him you might want to know. I really really beg of you to go see my rheumy. Not only is this guy the best rheumy in the area, he is the nicest man that is a doctor that you will EVER meet. He truly cares about his patients and will do anything for them to see them get well. I had it really bad this past fall/winter and this man showed me and my entire family nothing but caring and compassion. He signed the paperwork for my husband to get FMLA to stay home and care for me when we needed him to without batting an eyelash. He is the one that suggested a temp disabled parking placard for me when i was on crutches for 3 months and signed that paperwork without batting an eyelash. he will even challenge insurance companies FOR YOU if need be. He worked tirelessly with us to get me better and we are still working tirelessly to get me better. He is excellent with kids also. My 12 year old goes to him also.

My PM has his number in it. I really would love for you to seriously consider going to him.