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A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
North Wilkesboro, NC

What questions do I need to ask? I am very nervous about this appointment.

May 19, 2019
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Answer Summary

Members warmly encouraged someone preparing for their first rheumatologist appointment by providing a comprehensive list of questions covering... Read more

Members warmly encouraged someone preparing for their first rheumatologist appointment by providing a comprehensive list of questions covering medications, side effects, pain management strategies, lifestyle adjustments, and when to expect relief. Several members emphasized practical preparation tips like writing down questions beforehand, bringing someone along for support, documenting symptom patterns including pain type and triggers, and approaching the appointment as a collaborative partnership rather than something to fear. A recurring theme was reassurance through prayer, gentle hugs, and collective hope that the appointment would go well and lead to an effective treatment plan.

A myRAteam Member

How long will it take for me to start to feel better?
What can I do to sleep through the night?
I don’t like to take medicine. What are my other options?
If I take this medicine, what are possible side effects? Will it interfere with other meds I am taking?
What should I do when I have a flare?
What are good exercises for me to do?
When I’m in pain, should I use the joint/muscle or rest it?
How do I treat the pain (ice? heat? pain relievers?)
I wake up aching. Should I get a softer mattress? Are there other things I can do to wake up feeling better?
Should I change my diet (or avoid hot or spicy foods?)
Are there vitamins or supplements I could take to help the inflammation?
If I need special medication, will I have to take these for the rest of my life or is it possible to get better?

Share your symptoms:
Description of pain (dull, stabbing, throbbing?)
Where in the body you feel pain (muscles or joints?)
Time of day if applicable or days when pain was better or worse (when does the pain start and how does it progress? Dates and times the pain started and stopped?)
Overall length of time you’ve had symptoms
Any other symptoms besides joint, muscle or bone pain that seem connected
Your ideas about what might be causing the problem (does any particular physical activity, stress or food worsen your symptoms?)

I copied most of these from multiple sites. Praying your appointment goes well!

May 19, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Don't be nervous, work with your doctor as a team. Ask him to explain everything about your condition the good and the bad, so you know what to expect. Take paper so you can write things down or take some one with you. Good luck. Hugs and prayers are with you

May 19, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Jean gave you some excellent suggestions for questions. I hope your appointment goes well and you are comfortable with the doctor. Good luck!

May 19, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Glad your appointment went well. Good luck with your treatment plan.

May 23, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Yes it did,thank you.I hope you have a great day.

May 23, 2019

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