When is it time to find a new rheumatologist?
Hi all,
I just attended my rheumatologist on Monday. I'd been suffering really bad for the last 6 weeks. I've been on cosentyx over 3 and a half years and on relatively low pain meds as opioids do not suit me.
Looking for more pain relief
I was hoping to change or add to my injections which I thought may help. I was not even in his office 10 mins propped up on the bed and given steroid injections neck down and sent home. I just feel he never listens to me and I came out in tears and in more pain than when I went in. Am I better off looking for a new doctor as I'm just not happy at all? I feel I'm getting nowhere and he is hesitant to change my medication and I don't understand why.
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Hi Shelly90, I am newly diagnosed myself. Maybe I am not the correct person to answer this question. Here's some reasons I can think of when it's a good time to get a new rheumatologist.
1. If the rheumatologist makes you feel uncomfortable or belittles your symptoms.
2. If your rheumatologist does not actively listen to you Shelly. Only we know the pain we are feeling.
3. If you feel uncomfortable with the way your treatment is being handled.
4. If when your having bad flare ups or concerns to address with your doctor and he or she never gets back to you.
Hopes this helps!RS
Ya I definitely can tick off all the above...I'm due to see my own gp soon as my bloods were abnormal too which he completely dismissed which left me very unsettled and worried but I'm goin to ask to be referred to some1 else...Just feel so let down by his dismissive behaviour and only waiting to get his money in his pocket..Its hard enough suffering with constant pain and flare ups at times and coming home each time deflated exhausted and fed up...I really appreciate your reply thankyou...its nice to know ur not alone as not everyone understands what we go through xxx
Shelly90, I am so terribly sorry! That is inexcusable behavior! I would assume that with your blood work being abnormal he be more inclined to listen! I definitely would fire him!!No shame in getting a second opinion! I would ask the GP for a referral to someone else. Your GP will probably be more open to listening to you! I do not know if your comfortable doing this. It might help asking on here too if someone has a rheumatologist in your area that they would recommend. Please keep us updated. Good luck!
RS
Hi @Shelly06! RS gave you some good advice. Try to remember that you are paying for the doctor's services. If you are not comfortable and you feel the doctor is not listening, then it's probably time to find someone new. You deserve better. Hugs! - Lori (Team Member)
