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I was diagnosed with aggressive R.A at 49 years old. My question is with autoimmune diseases on the rise, why 6 mo waiting list for a doctor

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Chetopa, KS

Also, i still have not found a dx and i am now barely able to walk due to my knees and the water retention . I want to give up trying to have a life because all i can do is what i have to for survival. I live alone and i fear i wont be able to care for myself much longer without being able to walk

April 1
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myRAteam

Why are you waiting 6 months for treatment when you already have an RA diagnosis and are struggling to walk?

The frustration you're experiencing with long wait times is unfortunately common, but your situation sounds urgent. If you've already been diagnosed with aggressive RA at 49 and are now barely able to walk due to Show Full Answer

Why are you waiting 6 months for treatment when you already have an RA diagnosis and are struggling to walk?

The frustration you're experiencing with long wait times is unfortunately common, but your situation sounds urgent. If you've already been diagnosed with aggressive RA at 49 and are now barely able to walk due to knee issues and swelling, waiting 6 months could allow more joint damage to occur.

Early and aggressive treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) is crucial for RA, especially within the first few months of symptoms. The window of opportunity for preventing joint damage is typically 3-6 months from symptom onset.

Here are some steps to consider:

Immediate actions:
- Contact your primary care doctor and explain your worsening mobility and that you're struggling with daily activities
- Ask if they can prescribe initial RA medications while you wait for the rheumatologist
- Request an urgent referral or ask to be placed on a cancellation list
- Call the rheumatologist's office directly and explain your situation is deteriorating

Alternative options:
- Ask your doctor for referrals to other rheumatologists who might have earlier availability
- Check if your insurance covers rheumatologists in nearby areas
- Look into telemedicine rheumatology consultations, which some hospitals now offer
- Consider getting a second opinion from another specialist who might see you sooner

Don't give up:
Many myRAteam members have faced similar delays and feelings of hopelessness, but found that once they got proper treatment, their quality of life improved significantly. Your difficulty walking and fear about self-care are serious concerns that deserve immediate medical attention.

The Arthritis Foundation recommends seeing a doctor for joint symptoms that last at least three days or occur several times each month - you're well past that point and need care now.

April 1
A myRAteam Member

I am also sorry you having to deal with so many challenges and want you to know your not alone i also have trouble walking long distances I can only walk short walks and stand for a few minutes at a time due to RA and a herniated disk in my back and fibromyalgia I know what it’s like to face the realities of no longer being able to do many of the tasks around your home yourself alone I have had to move my son in with me and his young family it was a tough decision for all of us and some times we all go a little nuts but it’s much better than the alternative so far !

April 3
A myRAteam Member

I’m sorry you’re dealing with that, I know that’s really frustrating. If you don’t mind me asking, has your primary given you anything to help in the meantime, like a steroid or even something for pain like celecoxib? Just something to get you through until you can see rheumatology. Also not sure if it might be an insurance thing, unfortunately having an HMO vs a PPO can slow things down sometimes.

April 2
A myRAteam Member

@A myRAteam Member that AI advice is really good advice! I don't exactly know where in Kansas you are located in Chetopa. I live in NW Kansas and the only access I have here is thru Telehealth at my local Specialist Clinic. My actual Rheumatologist is located in the Hamptons! Check and see if there's access to Rheumatologist thru Telehealth. Keep the appointment you have scheduled (providing you have an appointment) just to make sure you are under care of a Rheumatologist. It's great to meet you! Stay strong and stay hopeful! Just so you know, I had to wait almost that long for my 1st appointment with my Rheumatologist. I think its kind of the norm unfortunately.

April 1

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