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Suggestions for getting a quicker doctors appt?

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 10/14/2009 12:48 AM (GMT 0)
So, my colitis is under control, but my joint swelling and joint pain is unbelieveable. I went to the emergency room last week, and they gave me a weeks worth of prednisone because both of my ankles were so swollen I could barely walk. I got a referal to the rheumatologist, and of course the closest appt they have is dec 10. What can I say to the receptionist who go out of their way not to help you get a quicker appt? I can barely walk some days, and fortunately I can take advil(even though I shouldn't), but it probably isn't good taking 4-6 a day for 20 days straight now.

Currently

2000mg sulfasalazine
Probiotics
Rowasa
Posted 10/14/2009 12:57 AM (GMT 0)
     Advil is bad for a person with UC.  Take it from me...I found out the hard way.  Why not call the rheumatologists office tomorrow and explain how badly you feel.  I sprained my back about a month ago, I thought I fractured it because I have osteoporosis and I explained to the orthopedic doctor's receptionist how bad I felt and she was able to get me in the same week.  Thank God it is only a sprain and not a fracture.  Ask if they could put you on the list in case they have a cancellation..that may work too.  Good luck.  Hope you are feeling better.
Posted 10/14/2009 1:02 AM (GMT 0)
Unfortunately specialists are sometimes hard to get into see quickly. But Christine's suggestions sound good. What if you were to call another rheumy to see if they have an opening sooner?
Posted 10/14/2009 2:29 PM (GMT 0)
The last time I was in ER, the doc told me to make a follow up with my GI. I told him that it always takes 2 months to get in. He told me to stress the fact that it was a follow up from ER. Told me that they usually get you in pretty quick if it's a follow up. I did what he suggested and got in to see my GI in less than a week.

I know the ER doc did a referral for you as opposed to a follow up, but it can't hurt to push a little and see what happens.
Posted 10/14/2009 3:48 PM (GMT 0)
You can try going through your GP's office to get in quicker. Sometimes they have special access that patients calling don't have.
Posted 10/18/2009 1:14 AM (GMT 0)
move to australia.... they usually see you in about 2 days.
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