Hi folks,
Need some advice here. I'm considering going to see another rheumy for a second opinion. I feel he is not listening to me and I've been playing the wait and see game for years now. I'm uncertain as to whether I should mention that I've been to a previous doctor and what he has found, or if I should just start fresh and not say anything. What do you all think?
Lots of hugs,
Kimber
Hey Kimber!
That's a tough call, if he's a good doctor (which of course you won't know, til after you've seen him) he'll want to see all the stuff from your previous doctor and run his own tests too just to see what he comes up with. However, if he just wants to get you in and out, he may not... puts you in a bad spot. Go to someone that is highly recommended and if he asks if you've seen someone else, be upfront and honest with him. Tell him yes, and this is what they've found, however I feel... and let him know your concerns. This way everything is out on the table... Good luck to you and let us know how it goes! - Duck
Diagnosed January 2005 - Psoriatic Arthritis/Spondylitis
That's a tough call, if he's a good doctor (which of course you won't know, til after you've seen him) he'll want to see all the stuff from your previous doctor and run his own tests too just to see what he comes up with. However, if he just wants to get you in and out, he may not... puts you in a bad spot. Go to someone that is highly recommended and if he asks if you've seen someone else, be upfront and honest with him. Tell him yes, and this is what they've found, however I feel... and let him know your concerns. This way everything is out on the table... Good luck to you and let us know how it goes! - Duck
Diagnosed January 2005 - Psoriatic Arthritis/Spondylitis
-Currently taking 50mg shot weekly of Enbrel
Diagnosed May 1998 - Graves Disease
-Complete Thyroidectomy September 1998 - While 11 weeks pregnant
Other Complications - GERD/Scoliosis/Hiatal Hernia/Graves Disease of the Eyes
Diagnosed May 1998 - Graves Disease
-Complete Thyroidectomy September 1998 - While 11 weeks pregnant
Other Complications - GERD/Scoliosis/Hiatal Hernia/Graves Disease of the Eyes
Current Meds - Enbrel/Prevacid/Synthroid
Past Meds - Inderal/PTU/Prednisone/Voltaren/Feldene/Mobic/Cortisone and Steroid Shots
What I've found to work well when asked with the question, "why are you seeking a second opinion?" i find that doctors totally respect and appreciate the truth....especially if it concerns communication and feeling open/comfortable. besides...quite truthfully, a doctor is like a shoe! it's gotta fit right...or else you don't go very far. (ooh, aren't i the philosopher tonight!)
been through 5 rheummy's. the only downer to seeing another doc, is that they might get lazy and agree too quickly with what the previous doc thinks.
so stick to basics...just bring Xrays, bloodwork, CTs, etc....don't ask for doctors notes/exams or diagnosis.
a fresh start is good...the doc will most likely want to repeat his own labs and tests anyway.
i wish you the very very best & hope this goes smoothly and quickly.
erin