Starting from Scratch

Saw the new rheumatologist today. Because 3 other doctors have said 3 different diagnosis, he is going to do his own work up and go from there. Have the list of 14 different tests he is running from the numerous tubes of blood they took. Go back in 2 weeks for results. And he said yes I need to get to the ortho and get my knee taken care of.

Praying you have better luck with this rheumatologist!

Keepgoing, Maybe the fourth doctor will "be the charm." This doctor sounds thorough and I hope you feel this will be a good patient-physician match for you. I went through several doctors (maybe four or five) before I received a correct diagnosis--seems like this one is thorough and that is very good---it takes lots of tests and you feel like a vampire "got you" after the extensive blood draws. All the best to you! Lupancatwoman Gail

Indeed this sounds positive. And about the knee....I am sure you will be glad you get it taken care of because you will feel so much better. Good luck and keep us posted.

Praying for you...

I'm in the same boat! I went to a new rheumy two weeks ago and he took 8 or 9 vials blood, did 20+ xrays, and sent me to physical rehab. I'll find out his results in 2 weeks. My first rheumy diagnosed me with lupus and she put me on plaquenil, etc. But, she would want to give me Myer's infusions if I had any new symptoms or worsening pain without really trying to find out what might be gong on. I'm worried that he won't find anything because I have been on plaquenil for over a year.

I wish you the best my lupie friend!

Going to the ortho seems like a good ideal. I hope every thing works out for you with this rheumy.

The new Dr is part of MyChart so I was able to see some of the results of my blood tests. The special ANA tests aren't back yet, but one test was a big red flag. My Vitamin D 25 hydroxy test shows that I am seriously deficient. Normal is at least 30 and anything below 20 is deficient. I am at 14.8. I wasn't sure about seeing test results, but now it wont be as much to take in when I go back for the results.

I love My Chart. I can think about results and be able to ask questions better.

keepgoing said:

The new Dr is part of MyChart so I was able to see some of the results of my blood tests. The special ANA tests aren't back yet, but one test was a big red flag. My Vitamin D 25 hydroxy test shows that I am seriously deficient. Normal is at least 30 and anything below 20 is deficient. I am at 14.8. I wasn't sure about seeing test results, but now it wont be as much to take in when I go back for the results.