I give up!!

[fibrotj]

I asked my new PCP if he thought I should have my MRI's repeated yesterday, and he said no, that he didn't think I had MS....said he thought ALL my symptoms were just 'upset' nerves or hyperventilation.   HUGH???  I told him that I knew what hyperventilation was, and that I was NOT hyperventilating!!  Why do doctors think they know our bodies better than ourselves??...especially when I've a great deal of medical training as well!!  I told him that might be possible when I'm having my anxiety attacks (which have subsided by now, only to be replace with MORE NEW SYMPTOMS!!).  I guess I'm just about ready to give up!  He said that "real damage" (I guess he means residual damage like PERMANENT muscle weakness, numbness, etc...) would indicate MS, but not neurological symptoms that come-&-go....much more likely from stress, eating habits, etc...   So......guess I'm not going to ask anymore unless I get to the point that I can no longer walk, use my hands, see, etc....Isn't it ashame that we have to be on our death beds, or in a wheelchair before we can get anyone to listen!!??  Sorry for ranting...I'm just sooooooooo frustrated!!!!  Maybe my visit with rheumy will be better tomorrow, but not counting on it, as she is my new PCP's office partner!!
~tj

[fibrotj]

I will...and thank you for encouragement.  It IS easy to get that "give up feeling" as this has been such a long, hard road as it is...as I'm sure all of you are so familiar with.  Thanks again!  ;)
~tj

[Erin0313]

tj,

Congrats on the fast appt. with the neuro. I'm happy that you were able to get in so fast and what great timing. One door closed and a new one opened. Perhaps the neuro will help you to get answers. Even if you don't get answers this time, don't give up. Most of us with a dx were limbo landers  for a really long time and had our share of loser doctors along the road.

It helps to have friends who have been there or are there with you so keep posting and let us know how the appt goes.

Good luck
Erin :)

[Sarahsmom46]

Sometimes we all feel like giving up, but then something happens and our pilot lights are lit up again like your calling and getting a second opinion appointment so quickly. What a way to confront challenges.  You go!!!!!

We'll be waiting to hear how it goes.  

Julie

[fibrotj]

I can't believe it!!  I decided to take a chance and call the Neuro clinic here in town, and made me an apt. WITHOUT a referral.  I go next Tuesday!!   I'll keep everyone informed!  
Thanks!   ;)
~tj

[fibrotj]

Thanks Lulu!  I had just posted this same topic in my other forum that I belong to, & low and behold, a QUADRUPLEGIC answered!!  He is soooo debilitated that he has to use an aumentative communication device (computer 'talk box') by moving a stick with his forehead!!...not to mention, NOTHING ELSE WORKS!!  Now THAT was a wake-up call!!!   He said they just kept dismissing him over the years too.  Think I'll be getting in to see another neuro....NO MATTER WHAT IT TAKES!!!!!    Thanks to everyone's encouragement!
~tj

[Lulu54]

The point of all those is - don't get discouraged and quit because this can be a really long and slow journey.  Keep at it until you find the cause of your problems.

my best,
Lulu

[fibrotj]

I've read all the info/posts on the links you provided, and they WERE helpful.  Thank you.  ;)
~tj

[Lulu54]

if you still want to give up, you may want to read this new post today .....

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/667791

my best,
Lulu

[Fluffysmom]

There is a Health Page the doni wrote called "Considering giving up?"  You might read it:

http://www.medhelp.org/health_pages/Multiple%20Sclerosis/Considering-Giving-Up/show/379?cid=36

I know how frustrating it is to be dismissed; believe me, I know.  The trick is to find a way to remain calm when someone comes up with an explanation like that for your symptoms, so they don't feel justified in their "diagnosis".

Have you been to pain management?  They often have classes on meditation, which not only helps reduce pain levels, but helps make it easier to deal with frustrations, irritations, and all that lot.

I hope your new rheumy can approach your case and symptoms with a fresh eye.  Give him/her the benefit of the doubt, and try to just share your symptoms and history without letting the frustration enter the conversation too much.  Like "It's very frustrating to feel like this and not find any answers", instead of telling how you really feel about your pinhead doctor right now.  :o)

Wishing you the best of luck,

Kathy

[fibrotj]

I agree Lulu.  Yes, I DO have Fibromyalgia...and I can see where many of my symptoms could be dismissed as Fibro symptoms,  however, I've had many new symptoms over the course of 2 yrs. that do NOT seem to fit Fibro Dx.  So, I'm at a loss!  
~tj

[Lulu54]

tj,
so what does the pin head doctor say about your fibro?  you do have that, right?  I would be looking for a new doctor to coordinate my medical needs if I have been dismissed this way.  This nonsense about anxiety and nerves should be absolutely the last diagnosis to be made, and only after everything else has been eliminated as a possibility.  

stay in touch,
Lulu