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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Think I was diagnosed with Lupus/osteo arthritis with my first specialist. He is retired but put me on Hydroxychloroquine/minocycline.

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Vancouver, BC

New rheumatologist sees really good bloodwork and acknowledges my Osteo everywhere but now has refused any further prescriptions. It has taken about 4 months and I am seeing all sorts of symptoms again!! Trying to find a new rheumatologist as she was impossible to talk to. Have a family history of various types of arthritis, including a brother with psoriatic.

June 16
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A MyLupusTeam Member

So sorry that you're having to go through this, I will keep you in my prayers so maybe you will find that new great Dr who will listen to you! But I. Know it's hard to get the Dr to listen to you ,I have been seeing mine since 2021 and she barely started treating it at the beginning of this year ,it's extremely frustrating and it drives you crazy cause they refuse to listen ! Hope you have better days and find your new Dr🙏

June 16
MyLupusTeam

What a frustrating situation — 4 months without your medications and symptoms returning is really difficult, especially when communication with your rheumatologist has broken down. Finding a new rheumatologist who truly listens is absolutely the right move.

When searching for a new rheumatologist, here are some helpful Show Full Answer

What a frustrating situation — 4 months without your medications and symptoms returning is really difficult, especially when communication with your rheumatologist has broken down. Finding a new rheumatologist who truly listens is absolutely the right move.

When searching for a new rheumatologist, here are some helpful steps:

- Ask for recommendations from others in your area or local lupus support groups
- Search the American College of Rheumatology database online
- Contact your local chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America for referrals
- Check your insurance coverage to narrow down options Once you find a new rheumatologist, it helps to go prepared. Consider tracking your returning symptoms now — dates, severity, and type — so you have clear documentation to share.

Good questions to ask your new doctor include:

- What should I expect from restarting my medications?
- What do my symptoms tell you about my current lupus activity?
- How often should we be in contact going forward?
- What warning signs should I watch for? It's worth knowing that finding the right medication combination can take time, and dosages sometimes need adjusting — especially when symptoms return after stopping treatment. Never restart or stop hydroxychloroquine without medical guidance, as changes should always be managed carefully by your doctor.

A good rheumatologist should feel like a long-term partner in your care — someone you feel completely comfortable talking to openly about everything you're experiencing.

June 16

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