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What a way to treat someone.......

Posted , 5 users are following.

lyy13133
lyy13133

Today I had my first session with the RA consultant. I have been to a consultant elsewhere but am now back in my own geographical location. I expected the same old crap about methotrexate and what a wonder drug it is but she was obviously annoyed when I said "no thanks" and despite her going on about the much better treatments there are and how MTX is gold standard etc etc I simply stated than you but no thanks!!! So, in the middle of a conversation she says "oh yes, and you may have diabetes" and went on "but the dipstick is unreliable so we will have to wait". Then added "yes, it would be unfair but it's genetic as well". I asked her to explain how she could tell I have diabetes because I haven't done a fasting test and I don't have any symptoms, while the cynical part of me assumed she was still annoyed I hadn't wanted that nuclear waste in my body. Got no real response and she said she would ring me the next day and didn't - so you can imagine what the 24 hrs were like. Is this usual? I intend to make a complaint but I am aware from previous experiences that rheumatology consultants seem quite power crazy and seem to think we should all get on bended knees to thank than for nothing more than dangerous pills. Does anyone else have this experience? As a researcher I am tempted to research this whole area because I just don't think people with RA are being treated properly.

2 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Jan999
    Jan999 lyy13133

    Posted

    Hello Iyy. I have my first rheumatology appointment in 10 days and the choice of drug keeps me awake at night. What do I do if they suggest Methotrexate? You have my sympathy. It's so difficult with these consultants especially if you don't do as they say.
  • denise35208
    denise35208 lyy13133

    Posted

    I have my 3rd appointment next week with my RA Consultant and I am not looking forward to it for the very same reason as you have explained.  She's very pushy about me taking drugs including methotrexate and is not happy that I have said no despite giving her valid reason as to why not.  I have done my own research about RA and follow a dairy gluten wheat free diet and I take supplements and as a result I feel pretty good most of the time.  I know that I am lucky and there are people who are really suffering and who have been helped enormously by taking medication and if and when the time comes that I need to take medication I will. My RA told me that just because I'm not showing any physical signs of RA doesn't mean that nothing is happening and she may be right. However I have spoken to my trusted GP and he agrees with me that there is no point taking harmful medication until it is necessary.  Seeing my RA next week is beginning to feel like getting into a boxing ring for round 3. Thanks for creating this discussion.
  • frances85589
    frances85589 lyy13133

    Posted

    They don't really listen you.I have had terrible 18 days waiting for a brain scan which I had last night.I had rituximab infusion in June and about September time I started tripping up n speech irratic etc.reported to specialist RA nurse in october who dismissed it suggesting I see my own gp.saw another on 5th January to be screened to start Abatacept following week as still not getting any relief with RA .Told her my right leg kept giving way and about speech, memory n tripping.wanted to admit me that day but no bed.said would ring me in few days but never so I kept appointment to see my consultant. Unfortunately he was Ill after a heart attack do hot another doctor who hadn't read my notes and overrode the decision to admit me saying I would be blocking a bed up but would order an urgent scan.18 day wait finally g and but now I can't walk unless husband holding me as my body is spasming jerking right side across to left. This is 3rd cock up they have made with me.I see own consultant Monday.he will only be able to see scan not report on it.Rituximab can effect spine n brain in rare case...am I one of them .They just try and play God with us
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