I had my first appointment with my new rheumatologist yesterday. I have waited for 6 months to see her. And the appt went wonderfully well! She is working on a PA from my insurance for Humira.
She took one look at my hands and feet and asked if I was open to trying a biologic. And my response was, “Please!” and that Ive begged my previous rheumy for a biologic for over a year. She ordered labs and several X-rays. This appt was very different from what I experienced with my previous rheumy. Lots of questions from her and lots of answers!
I have been living in pain for more than 1.5 years because I trusted my previous rheumy. If you are reading this and have reservations about your current provider and/or your plan of treatment, get a second opinion! That was the best piece of advise that I have received from this group. I have been struggling with the secondary diagnosis of fibromyalgia from my previous rheumy. I felt quite strongly that my fatigue, swelling, tender joints and all over body aches are all due to poor treatment and control of my PsA. He blamed it all on fibro. The new doc believes that all my symptoms and pain are PsA related.
My new plan of treatment includes: Arthrotec 50/200, Humira every 14 days, and a reduction of leflunomide from 20mg to 10mg after 1 month of Humira with a possibility of discontinuing the leflunomide. I’m having some GI issues with the leflunomide so she feels that I may need to wean off of it all together.
I am glad you got the second opinion. My first rheumy never wanted to go the biologic route. My second rheumy mentioned going on it at the first appointment. She started the PA and it was approved. I have taken two doses so far with no side effects!
Wonderful news, aberry. Oh, that second opinion has made so much difference to so many of us! It completely changed the course of my disease, and my quality of life. Let's hope it does the same for you!
You make an interesting point about the "role" of fibromyalgia in PsA diagnosis and treatment. My own (uneducated layperson's) opinion is that fibro should not even enter the conversation until there is no PsA diagnostic and treatment stone left unturned. JMHO
Good news, aberry. I’m waiting for a second opinion myself at the moment…
See you, I agree. The first time I saw my current rheumy, he told me fibro is a “diagnosis of exclusion” meaning it shouldn’t be suggested until other possible causes have been ruled out… Then he wrote to my GP saying he thought I had it, before I’d had any tests… And had to write again when the ultrasound showed inflammation!
Those of us who have found this site are fortunate, indeed! The guidance, advice and support from people that have been dealing with this for some time is invaluable. I'm so happy that you have found a doctor that hears you, and is moving things forward for you :-)