Date: 26.12.2011
From: Paula
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Subject: worried what a rhumatologist will say about mental health problems
Hi am seeing a rhumatologist for the first time on 5th January. What worries me is that I have enduring mental health problems and that the doctor will be dismissive of me because of this, I am on Lithium for mental health issues and asthmatic. I have pain and swelling in the hands and wrisits, and feel achy all over and fatigued. The base of both my thumb joints have swollen along with my knuckles and the pain is causing sleepless nights and major problems with basic living. I had to have help to cut up my xmas dinner. I am at my wits end and not sure what is the best way forward.
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Date: 26.12.2011
From: bsk
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Subject: Re: worried what a rhumatologist will say about mental health problems
Hi Paula, your mental health probs have nothing to do with your joint problems. He will diagnose you based on your blood results and swelling/pain in your hands and other joints. Tiredness is common in arthritis.Hopefully, they will get a diagnosis and get you on some rheumatology drugs quickly. You might get a steroid injection if you are lucky which will help with the joints very quickly. Best of luck.
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Date: 26.12.2011
From: rhona
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Subject: Re: worried what a rhumatologist will say about mental health problems
Hi Paula, as bsk says the consultant will be looking at your blood results and joints and will certainly not treat you any differently because of any mental health problems. Stress often makes the pain worse so try and relax and don't worry so much. good luck. x
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Date: 27.12.2011
From: marlene
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Subject: Re: worried what a rhumatologist will say about mental health problems
Hi Paula, just a little comment as the others have said it all. I hope you get good results from your appointment. The other problems you have, have no bearing on this whats so ever.stop worrying if you can as Rhona says stress is not good for pain. Best of Luck X
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Date: 29.12.2011
From: Anne Kenyon
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Subject: Re: worried what a rhumatologist will say about mental health problems
Hi Paula, when I read your post, my heart went out to you, I understand how you must be feeling, anyone who has ever had mental issues would feel the same way. Please dont worry about it, I will reiterate what the others have said, your mental state has nothing to do with why you are going there, it is really none of their business, other than maybe any contradictions medication wise. Stress doesnt help us at all, makes the pain alot worse, I know that, I am on antidepressants, and I have never yet been questioned about my mental state when being seen about arthritis. Good luck :)
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