We often think that arthritis is just a part of getting older and that 1) we don’t need to see the doctor and 2) there’s nothing that can be done. But as a rheumatologist, I couldn’t disagree more! Arthritis may be a part of getting older, but PAIN doesn’t have to be and it definitely deserves a conversation (or two) with your doctor. Learn what you can expect during that visit in the above video.
[Read more…] about Should you see a doctor for arthritis?Appointment Prep
Why getting a diagnosis is hard.
No one likes to talk about it, but doctor’s don’t know everything. Gasp! But it’s true. Correctly diagnosing someone can take longer than we’d all like. This is especially true when you have had your symptoms for a long time and have seen multiple specialists. Whether you are dealing with chronic headaches, fibromyalgia, fatigue or mood swings, having symptoms that are not easily seen or found in blood tests makes it more likely to fall into this category. It is demoralizing and frustrating for everyone involved. Although every case is unique, in the video above, I go over some of the most common reasons why people find themselves in this situation. Understanding our system and how we participate in the system can help us work within it to get to answers and ultimately, better health. This video can hopefully provide some insight into why you aren’t getting answers and what you can do to start getting some.
After watching the video, if you are interested in how you can be better organized for all your appointments, check out our Worksheets page! We have tools there that will help you organize your thoughts, medical journey and appointment notes.
Cheers!
~Ortiz
Have a good Doctor’s visit with Fibromyalgia
How are things like chronic pain, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue or any other chronic condition for that matter, supposed to be adequately addressed in our doctor’s visits? When we are only given 15 minutes and a giant computer (or tablet) sits between us and the doctor, it just seems like a losing battle.
Chronic conditions, ESPECIALLY, autoimmune conditions require time and a doctor’s full attention, both of which are on short supply in our current clinic environments. This is a big problem that will, ultimately, require big solutions, but there are things you can do, right now, to work within the system we’ve got, to get the most out of each appointment. The video above talks about things you can do to prepare for your appointment so that you are moving FORWARD and not just in circles.
Please let me know what you think and if you have any other tips that could help us all as we try to make our medical system work for us!
Cheers,