You have a unique medical history. Therefore, it is essential to talk with your doctor or health care provider about your personal risk factors and/or experience with rheumatoid arthritis. By talking openly and regularly with your health care provider, you can take an active role in your care.
General Tips for Gathering Information
Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your health care provider:
Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and ask questions you may not have thought of.
Write out your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.
Write down the answers you get, and ask for clarification if necessary.
Don't be afraid to ask your questions or to ask for more information about what you are discussing. You have a right to know.
Specific Questions to Ask Your Health Care Provider
About Rheumatoid Arthritis
Do my symptoms suggest that I have rheumatoid arthritis?
Could these symptoms be caused by any other joint diseases?
Do you feel that I need any other diagnostic tests?
What should I tell my children about their risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis?
About Treatment Options
When can I expect to feel improvement from the treatment?
What comfort measures (such as heat or cold) might be helpful?
What medications can I take to reduce pain and improve my ability to function normally?
What side effects do these medications have?
Should I consider other treatments, such as apheresis?
Is my rheumatoid arthritis so advanced that I should consider any surgical procedures?
Are there any alternative or complementary therapies that may help me?
About Lifestyle Changes
What kinds of exercise should I do to increase my muscle strength?
Are there exercises or athletic activities that will overly stress my joints, and which I should therefore avoid?
Could my occupation be contributing to my joint disease and symptoms?
How much rest should I get?
Are there any assistive devices that might help me continue to function independently?
About Outlook
What is the usual progression of rheumatoid arthritis?
How can I slow or halt the progression of rheumatoid arthritis?
Do I have to give up or change any of my activities now or in the future?
Sources:
Arthritis Foundation
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Cecil Textbook of Medicine, 21st ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 2000.
Conn’s Current Therapy, 54th ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 2002.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
