First appointment with the rheumatologist

[MidnightMystery]

Hi , I have finally received an appointment , I'm wondering what to expect as it's my first time , I've been referred as the doctor suspects Lupus and my blood test came back with elevated clotting screen. Also Any ideas on what the clotting screen being elevated means would be greatly appreciated.

Hi, I would register on Health Unlocked lupus page. It's a very busy supportive forum.

One of things I found surprising is that they want to know everything. They will ask about childhood history etc.
They will ask you to strip to underwear as they will look at the whole body.
They will take lots of blood.

I'm interested in this too as I have my first appointment with a rheumatologist in Monday. (I'd run my course with the nephrologist!)

Hi. Expect a tick list of questions for the 11/12 (can't remember, as shove of then are blood test related) diagnostic criteria for lupus: rash, hair loss, chest pain, fatigue, joint pain, mouth ulcers etc., and a battery of blood tests.

Clotting could be abtiphospholid syndrome, linked to lupus a condition that causes you more likely to get blood clots.

I'd make a note of your three most troubling symptoms, including any patterns...lots of women with lupus/ra have a worsening of submitting between ovulation and menstruation.