Overwhelmed: Now I'm being referred to a rheumatologist

[ElemteacherPK6]

I know this isn't directly MS related (at least I don't think so), but I'm just overwhelmed with this now on top of my recent CIS diagnosis.

I went to my primary care because of some long term, although mild, pain in my hip/groin area. She asked tons of questions, felt the area, etc (I'd also seen some friends who are in physical therapy school and they couldn't id the problem either). She ordered an Xray. That came back normal. After consulting with the MD (she's a PA) my doctor is suggesting a referral to a rheumatologist.

I'm so sick of medical problems and tests, although it's become like a new normal for me, I almost wouldn't know what to do without them, lol. In some ways this feels like over kill for pain that's so mild I don't even need OTC meds. On the other hand, it's been ongoing for a while, and I do remember now that sometimes I have aching in my knees. I'm only 30. I'm stressed about taking even more time off work.

Thoughts? Suggestions? Commiseration?

[pennstater]

I can relate. I actually had joint pain in hips, groin, and knees at one point, pre-MS, about age 36. My PCP sent we to a rheumatologist. Her testing was all negative, but blood work was indicative of an autoimmune disease. She told me if it didn't let up, to see a neuro. But it did let up , so never thought more of it.

After MS diagnosis, was told that it may have been a MS relapse. I now have it again in the hip, but arthritis related (confirmed by MRI). Exercise and stretching make it feel better.

Try not to get too worried. Your PCP could just be extra cautious.

[Marco]

I am sorry you are having additional medical concerns, especially pain. Hopefully, the rheumatologist can help remedy the pain.

My one suggestion is to delay the rheumatologist appointment until summer break.

Again I am sorry for your trouble and I wish you well.

[MermaidOP]

Dear ElemteacherPK6,
Thank you for posting your story. I've had MS for a long, long time, but I can relate. For years, when my MS was RRMS and continuing now with SPMS, I have had very specific pain in my right hip, intense and painful, and various xrays, exams, tests have shown nothing. Even though I am "of an age," doctors assure me I don't have arthritis (at least very bad). I understand your reluctance to start one more quest of tests and ambiguous diagnosis.

I try not to give up. I exercise with thoughtfulness everyday in the pool. I eat well (grain-free) and take gabapentin and baclofen and 4-amp. I'm better when I am actually in the water, but until my gills grow in, it's a temporary fix. Don't give up.

Stay lifted,
Mermaid Susan

[ElemteacherPK6]

Thank you so much everyone!

[sarabeach123]

How about trying an osteopath?

[Jules A]

Very discouraging to think of another possible diagnosis however on the positive side I much appreciate they are being proactive instead of immediately blaming everything on MS. It is likely to be MS related but I'd rather have the diagnostics performed than just assume it is MS in the event there is something you could do to avoid further progression of whatever it might be.

I hope nothing more is found and that whatever it is resolves completely.

[ElemteacherPK6]

Thanks everyone! I asked for more information, and they said they're referring me because it could be bursitis (inflammation of the fluid sac around the joint) and a rheumatologist would be best for confirming and treating that. Relieved that it's not something "scary" and I feel more comfortable putting off the appointment until a time when work is less crazy (I'm a teacher so this time of year is tough to take time off).

[Canary54]

Just know that unless it's a life-threatening situation, it's okay to delay scheduling yet another appointment. Last summer, my PCP wanted to refer me to yet another specialist in addition to my mammogram appointment, neurologist, hematologist and physical & occupational therapy appointments. Temperature was consistently in the 90's...….and I just couldn't schlep myself to another medical appointment. PCP confirmed the appointment she was suggesting wasn't critical, so I told her I would revisit her recommendation at my next 6 month appointment because I was on overload with medical appointments! She was accepting of my decision. Just don't let yourself get overwhelmed!

[ElemteacherPK6]

Thanks Canary! It's so helpful to have that confirmation from someone who knows what it's like to have numerous appointments. I hope you're doing well!