natya: Blood tests! FINALLY!
November 4th, 2009Today I had an appointment with my GP as my dermo NEGLECTED to offer me any blood testing, or the compulsory pregnancy tests.
My GP was shocked that he hadn’t ordered bloods (she even rolled her eyes like it must happen quite often) so gave me the necessary forms. She explained when I needed to go back for bloods and just to come back to her if I have problems.
I ALWAYS have trouble getting blood so adviced the nice nurse to not worry about this if it happens, I was soon eating my words because I wouldn’t stop bleeding! They asked me to call back in a couple of days and get the results.Fingers crossed.
How do I know what levels everything should be?
Am I able to do home pregnancy testing or have to go somewhere? My prescription is on the “owing shelf” at the hosp. So I hope it’s still there when I collect it. I have some form they gave me…
Ugh, I really hate doctors and NHS but I’m so happy to be on Roaccutane. My face has been oil-free for the first time in 10 years. It’s a strange feeling! NORMAL SKIN!
sparklypickle
4th Nov, 09
Hey Natya! Im so glad your GP is looking out for you, your derm does sound pretty awful. As for the bloods, you will be told that the levels of cholesterol liver enztmes, platelets, etc are ‘normal’ or otherwise. they won’t give you the number unless you ask your GP cos the receptionist who reads the result to you probably doesnt have the full report. If there is anything even mildly concerning you will be asked to see your GP again.
as for preg tests, it depends on the dispensing pharmacy. personally I had to have my script signed my the derm nurse to say I was 100% not with child (after the necessary in clinic test) but if they simply ask you if you aer perg or not I can’t see why you can’t do it at home.
It is amazing to have ‘normal’ skin texture isn;t it, but after the end of my course I wsa glad to get a little moisture and supleness back into my face!
Sparks x
atnatya
4th Nov, 09
When I picked up my first prescription they just asked, so I think it should be okay. I might just take a test with me just in case they ask to see it. Bit yuk to carry that around with me though lol! Nice reminder of how single I am…”Oh. It’s negative?! What a surprise!” Small price to pay to get my Roaccutane though so I don’t mind.
I’m not sure exactly how well this will work but if I have a occurrence then I’ll just go back to the derm. No point in worrying eh
I’ve done enough of that already.
Thinking about my cumulative dose I’ll only have taken 3600mg in four months (30mg/day) and I’m meant to take 7200mg. Not sure whether he’ll up my dose after 4 months or if I should just try and rebook my appointment with the dermo for an earlier date. My acne is quite moderate on my face slightly worse on my back so I’m really lost with all this. Trawling the site for similar cases to mine. Maybe I’m on low dose/longer period of time?! Here’s hoping!
Nat xoxo
atsparklypickle
4th Nov, 09
I was just wondering, did you show the derm the acne on your back or only your face? It would be normal for you to continue for a further 3-4 months after the current 4 on 30mg, but hten again I only too 5,000 as my cummulative dose and (touch wood) so far so good! I have read somewhere that back and chest acne takes a larger cummulative dose to cure than facial acne, but this may be mythical….
LOL(taking preg test with you to show ‘em) I hoe you dont have to do that! haha!
S x
atnatya
4th Nov, 09
Yeh me too! Imagine THAT in your handbag? O_o
I was in my underwear on the bed cos he was doing a mole check for me, one near the crease of my leg/hip and one on my collar bone. This was the original reason I went to see the derm. I think seeing my back was what made him suggest Roaccutane and the fact I’ve tried so many other things over the years. It was a good day though. Firstly my mole check got put forward a month, then he tells me I don’t have skin cancer, then prescribes Roaccutane. I’ll just have to think of that if I get down
You’ve been so helpful Pickle, I cannot thank you enough. I’m 56kg, usually I’m 52 but I’ve put on a few pounds for some unknown reason. Wii fit keeps me in check though
I’m sure he must have SOME small idea of what he’s doing. Still think he’s a complete hack though!
Glad I have a place to vent!
xoxo
atVivi
4th Nov, 09
Natya, we’re several on this site who have relied on Dr SparklyPickle for advice and support.
Re the pregnancy test, where I get my pills they never ask, but I guess they know the derm or nurse wouldn’t give me the prescription without a negative test done there and then.
x
at