Nancy had consultations, diagnostic tests and treatment at Spire Hartswood Hospital under the care of consultant rheumatologist, Professor Chakravarty.
In 2014 I suffered a prolapsed disc. For months afterwards I was in terrible pain which was gradually spreading throughout my body. I visited numerous doctors, physiotherapists and osteopaths, none of whom could find a reason for the continuous pain. A gynaecologist found that I had large fibroids and thought this could be causing my lower back pain. I had an operation to remove the fibroids, but unfortunately whilst in recovery from the operation I experienced heart problems. I had never had any heart problems before and it transpired I had atrial tachycardia. Shortly after this I started to feel extremely unwell.
I was back and forwards to see my GP who continually sent me to accident and emergency where they could find nothing wrong with me. During this time I lost two stone in weight, I was in constant pain and felt dizzy - I was absolutely at the end of my tether.
Eventually a friend recommended I saw a consultant rheumatologist. I did some research and Professor Chakravarty sounded ideal.
I made an appointment at Spire Hartswood Hospital to see Professor Chakravarty and when I first met him he was baffled by my many symptoms too. However, unlike the many doctors before him, he was determined to get to the bottom of my condition. He did numerous blood tests, sent me for lots of different scans and x-rays at Spire Hartswood Hospitals and sat and listened to me while making copious notes.
For the first time in two years I felt optimistic, Professor Chakravarty really cared. He always listened and was extremely patient, explaining each procedure. Finally, after a few months, the Professor had the answer.
It transpired I had pericardial infusion, which along with my other symptoms led him to believe I had an undifferentiated connective tissue disease. He immediately started me on steroids and hydroxychloroquine and I began to improve. I am still taking hydroxychloroquine and am currently reducing my steroids.
I am slowly beginning to feel like the old me again, I still have aches and pains and have bad days where the exhaustion leaves me washed out. However, I am now back at work and recently joined a gym!
I am still under the Professors care (thankfully) and will be on medication for the rest of my life, but thanks to him I now look forward to the days ahead!
Quite frankly, thanks to Professor Chakravarty’s vast knowledge and expertise, I am now on the road to recovery.
I cannot thank or praise him enough.