Rheumy or pain doctor

Hey everyone! I have had a lot of advice from people saying that I should go to a pain dr to get prescribed all my medications. I was thinking about that and then I realized none of the people that suggested this to me had a chronic disease or pain. So I thought I would ask you all your opinions. Should I stick with the rheumy for everything or go to the pain doc for all the pain I am having?

I am also going tomorrow for my apt! Wish me luck. Hopefully we will figure out what is going on with my body and get it under control! I also want to say that this website and forum has helped me so much since I have been diagnosed with Lupus. When I was diagnosed I got overwhelmed and didnt know what to do but you all have helped me greatly!!!

Hi Aimsgirl!

 

Good luck with your appointment tomorrow. Let us know how it goes.

 

As for your question, I would stick with your rheumy for now and talk to them about your pain.  They are also very knowledgeable about pain medication - only because their specialty is with rheumatic diseases and they're all associated with a lot of pain.  So your rheumy will know what to prescribe for you that won't interact badly with your lupus or other meds.  That's my opinion on it anyway. If you find that you aren't getting the care you need from your rheumy involving your pain, then investigate another specialist.  But it's always tricky making sure everyone knows what you can and can't take.  just be really careful okay!

 

Ginny

Hi Aimsgirl, Yes, the rheumy should manage the joint and muscle related pain. IF you have nerve pain or trapped nerves in your spine . . . issues like that . . . a pain doc might be the answer IF your rheumy or GP can't help. Is your appointment tomorrow with the rheumy or the pain guy?? Is your pain poorly managed?? I hope you'll keep us posted. Blessings!