How are you feeling? Only you know for sure. That’s why it’s so important to tell your rheumatologist the whole truth about your reactions to current therapies and your symptoms. Because if you open up to your healthcare team, you can build the strong partnership needed to successfully manage your RA.
So be honest and clear. Tell your rheumatologist if:
- You have difficulty doing daily activities
- Your RA symptoms return even after taking medicine
- You have developed new symptoms, and they are happening more frequently
- Your treatment is becoming less effective over time
- You cannot handle your current treatment’s side effects
Here are some questions for your rheumatologist.
Now that you know the importance of communication between you and your rheumatologist, it’s time to round out the rest of your healthcare team. Here are some of the people you might want to recruit. And remember, it’s up to you and your rheumatologist to decide who is right for your RA team.
Remember, you know your body best. So be open with your team about how you're feeling—every step of the way.
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Rheumatologists
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What they do: Your star player, head coach, and manager—all rolled into one. That’s because rheumatologists treat your RA and track your progress. They are also your best source of information since they’re specially trained to diagnose and treat rheumatic diseases.
What you can do: To get a star performance out of them, it’s up to you to be open and honest. Share your symptoms, concerns, and healthcare needs with your rheumatologists. They can help you determine and accomplish your treatment goals.
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Nurses
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What they do: Every team needs players who can offer support in a variety of areas. That’s why nurses are so important. They serve many essential functions. For example, they may administer infusions, monitor your vital signs or any potential side effects you may have during treatment, help with paperwork, or answer any questions you may have from your treatment to your health insurance.
What you can do: It’s really important for you to partner with your nurses and develop an open line of communication with them. They’ll be your go-to contacts if you have any questions or concerns.
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Nutritionists
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What they do: What team doesn’t need to eat right? That’s why nutritionists are so useful. They educate about the importance of maintaining a healthy diet. And they also plan nutrition programs.
What you can do: Work with them. A better diet may help you have more energy. If necessary, a nutritionist may also help you lose weight, which will put less pressure on your joints.
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Physical Therapists
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What they do: Physical therapists gauge your strength as well as your joint and muscle mobility. This helps them to partner with your doctor and come up with safe, alternative ways for you to carry out everyday activities.
What you can do: Remember, they’re trained professionals. So you can trust their opinions on managing RA. But definitely speak up if you feel uncomfortable with a certain move.
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Caregivers
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What they do: They might be a friend, family member, or hired professional. But think of them as direct teammates. They assist in any number of ways, from boosting your morale when you’re not feeling your best to helping you to complete certain tasks.
What you can do: It’s just as important to speak openly with your caregiver as your rheumatologist. Only now it’s about what you need them to do for you. If you can’t do something, it’s best to let them know.
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Friends & Family
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What they do: Your biggest fans. And while that may seem obvious, the truth is, friends and family give you the physical and emotional support you need—when you need it most.
What you can do: Welcome their support. And, as always, be open with them about your RA and your particular needs.
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Support Resources
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What they do: Support resources such as your personal insurance and Genentech Rheumatology Access Solutions can help you get the medicine you need. Whether it’s filing a claim or helping to pay for your treatment costs, these resources are here to back you up.
What you can do: Learn all you can about your support resources. Genentech Access Solutions Find out how Genentech Rheumatology Access Solutions can help.
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