Joint hypermobility disorders :
Info To Take to RHemy - - Posted by Stacey (Stacey), 15 April 2003
Hi Everyone (Again)
I have an appt with a rheumy on may 23rd (yay!!) Unfortunatly neither of my parents will be able to go with me so i need to make a list of any background information that i may need before hand. For a rheumy do i need a detailed family history / previous medications / previous ailments etc. A list of what i should have woudl be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much
Stacey
Posted by Shazinoz (Shazinoz), 15 April 2003
Stacey,
Take ANYTHING and EVERYTHING you can think of, if it isn't needed then good, but if it needed then you will have it with you. Take as much info as you can (Hey if he isn't any good you can always droen him in your paper work). If like me you have HEAPS of info then think about maybe (if you have the facilities to) then scan and copies everything onto a CD as this is MUCH easier to cart around and then you can take the paper copies with you and leave him/her a CD if they want your history (this way you wont LOSE ny of your info, and even if you do, you will have a scanned copy for backup (I actually print out copies of what I need for appointments and leave ALL originals at home (so that NOTHING can happen to it (AS this medical history can be our life and for helping us find out what on earth is happening to these Odd Bods of ours))).
Good Luck and Happy Hunting (for your info).
Sharon
Posted by rhea (rhea), 16 April 2003
Hi Stacey,
I agree with Sharon...take everything. Any test results, x-rays, MRIs, bone scans etc... take it! And in addition to having your own medical history he/she will also be interested in any ailments in your surrounding family. Don't expect an answer or anything close to a diagnosis on your first visit. Most likely you'll be examined and than sent to go for a whole barrage of tests (I had several x-rays, urine analysis, and over 20 different blood tests ordered) You may have to go back a few times to discuss test results and he/she may also experiment with different drugs. In the end, hopefully you come out with a diagnosis or you may be reffered to another specialist who knows more about your suspected condition.
All the best Stacey!!!
(((hugs)))
rhea
Posted by SL99 (SL99), 17 April 2003
Hi Stacey,
I'm so glad to hear that you've got an appt with the Rheumy sooner than first suggested. I really hope it goes well, I will be thinking of you and sending good vibes on the day Darl! 
As for what to take, pretty much what has been said before...take everything and anything that you think might be important and even stuff that you don't as it can be amazing what tiny little bits of info can change the progression of your treatment.
I often find it helps to gradually build up a list of things you need to take or think might be useful so you can add to it as and when you remember something. It's often helpful to take a list of things you need to tell the or ask the Rhuemy too, as important questions often get missed or forgotten in the middle or a consultation. Try to take as detailled a medical ad family history as you can too, as that may have some bearing on your position and how they Rheumy treats you.
I hope everything goes well for you Darl and that this is athe start of getting your pain under control or better still stopped. Take care adn know I'll be thinking of you.
Love and hugs....Jo
xxx
Updated Thu Apr 29 2010
