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Seeing A Rheumatologist For The First Time Soon What Questions Should I Be Asking?

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Brighton, UK
June 15, 2015
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A MyFibroTeam Member

I have already had my diagnosis I had it back in 2011 but I had to pay £250 to see a rheumatologist who diagnosed ,me and told me to get on with it but I also have other problems too which is why after all this time my go has referred me to sort out my pain mess and to see what other things can be offered to me. Thank you so much for all your suggestions they are fantastic. But what is a blood test going to show I had very low vitamin d which has vastly improved but apart from that I have bee very little so I am going to copy and paste all your suggestions and print them off. Thank you once again xxx 😀

June 21, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Oh, I forgot a few:

What other disorders or diseases do you have to rule out, before a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia is made?
What does my blood test actually show you? Are there specific markers in my blood you are looking for?
How is Fibromyaglia different from other autoimmune disorders like Arthritis and Lupus?
Is there a pain management group or clinic you can refer me to?

June 16, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

If you have been newly diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, there are some very specific questions you'll want to ask your doctor to better understand the next step in your treatment plan. You may want to schedule an appointment specifically for asking questions, since doctors are often limited in the amount of time they can spend with each patient. Ask the receptionist to block out at least 30 minutes for your appointment.

Here are some sample questions for your doctor:

How do you diagnose fibromyalgia?
Is there any way to figure out what caused MY fibromyalgia?
Are there any natural herbs or supplements I can take instead of medication?
Are there medications I can take? What side effects can I expect?
Are there any drug interactions with that medication?
Are there any foods I should avoid that can make my symptoms worse?
Are there any activities I should avoid so I don't cause an increase in symptoms?
What exercises can I do to ease my symptoms?
What do you suggest I do to improve my quality of sleep?
What alternative therapies might help me? (Massage is very helpful.)
Will my insurance cover alternative therapy options?
How do I explain my condition to friends, family, boss and colleagues?
Are there stress management techniques (meditation, yoga, massage) that could help?
Can you recommend a nutritionist? Counseling?
Can you recommend a support group or chat room I could join?
Are there any clinical trials I could participate in?
If this medication doesn't work for me, are you willing to write an Rx for something that will work better for my symptoms?
How often should I be coming to see you for tests or medication adjustments?

June 16, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Well said @A MyFibroTeam Member. Very thorough.

June 17, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Absolutely write everything down. In fact, even better, set your phone to audio record the whole visit. You won't be able to remember everything that is said. As soon as she comes in the door, hit record. :)

June 16, 2015

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