Has anyone given up on seeing a rheumatologis? t

[RobertSmithsLipstick]

I feel that I just go along, he orders blood tests, and doesnt explain anything much.

He did tell me that my eyes weren't dry, which has since been proved very wrong, as I have had to have an emergency ophthalmology appointment, been told that my eyes are extremely dry, and they are scarred a.d pitted through not being treated appropriately.

They asked if I have an autoimmune condition, in particular sjogrens, and said that is how they are going to treat my eyes (as if I do) as they are quite certain i have it.

It was ruled out by the rheumatologist, on the basis that my eyes arent dry.

I feel it's all becoming a waste of time, really.

Would I be daft, though, to call a halt to the rheumatologist visits?

I am on prednisone. Or whatever it's called, but it's being reduced now, even though i have never really felt better on it.

I've only ever seen the nurse buzzing around in the background during my appointments.

How would I get to speak to her?

You must be seeing the same one as me!!
Bloody useless and patronising.
I refuse to see him anymore and have given up.

Well I've had a corker.

I got a text message on Monday giving me an 'NHS home phone appointment' at a particular time yesterday. It didn't say which Dept it was coming from. I thought it was odd, especially as it clashed with minor surgery I was having yesterday.

So I rang the number and it was Rheumatology. I explained I was in for surgery elsewhere (skin cancer) so could I re-schedule the appointment please? Yep, fine - the next available one is in September. September.

However - and this may be relevant and of use to you, @RobertSmithsLipstick, when I expressed my concerns the person I was speaking to advised me to 'ring the helpline with any immediate problems' and gave me the Rheumatology Helpline Number. Apparently it's run by specialist nurses.

So I'd suggest maybe asking your local Rheumatology Dept if they have a Helpline for current patients.

Massive sigh.

Anyway I'm back home now sliced and stitched and trying to juggle pain meds around being told to avoid NSAIDs for a few days if poss. The edibles it is, then ...

I'll check out this helpline you speak of.
Perhaps there is one at the hospital I go to.
Again, live in hope.
Wish I had some edibles.