I'm on methotrexate.  I've taken it for six weeks and it hasn't helped yet.  My doc said they've used it for years.  It has horrible side effects like hair loss and vomiting. I've had the stomach problems. I'd rather avoid the hair loss.... thankyouverymuch. I will ask him about other meds. 

 I need to be more proactive in my healthcare, but I'm always quiet and intimidated by doctors, especially this specialist.  I know I should't be, but I am. I can take on a doctor with no problem when it has to do with my kids.  But when it comes to my health, I sit quietly, so quietly that I don't tell the doctor all he needs to know. I'm taking a tip of my own for moms when taking a little one to the doctor. 

Sit down before the appointment and write down what you need to say to the doctor.  List symptoms, concerns about medicines, and make quick notes about how the daily schedule has changed.  Write down everything, no matter how insignificant it seems at the time. 

I get so busy taking care of the kids, running them to activities, helping with homework, keeping the house that if I don't make a list before doctor appointments I can't even remember what medicines I'm on from one of my other doctors when the nurse asks.

Being a Single, Divorce Mom, there's no dad at home to take off some of the parenting pressure when I'm ill.  If I'm not proactive, who'll be there for the kids in the long run?