Paging Dr. Right!

» annej - Finding the right Dr..

I changed doctors after being left feeling like my condition was not well explained and often minimized. When I was first sick the needed tests weren't done because the dr felt I was just over tired and depressed from being sick so much. Finally after a couple of months I was finally given an MRI and spinal test. Even then it was never explained well to me. I had to make a change.

I waited three months to get into a good doctor that had been recommended to me. She looked over my records and said I had indeed been tested thoroughly and then proceeded to explain what they had found. No one had ever done that before. She also explained that damaged nerves heal slowly and encouraged patience. Once I was well enough she has helped me get on a diet to build my immune system and a gentle exercise program plus folic acid. She honors my symptoms and encourages me to do what I can to overcome things. Right now all I can do is build my overall health and immune system. The original damage won't go away but I can control the symptoms better. It's good to know that.

Sure the original specialists tested me well but I was left in a fog as to what was going on. What a difference a good Dr. makes even in situations where there is not a lot that can be done.

-- posted by annej

Permalink Print Discussion Email Discussion Join the latest discussions

» TvBabe - A common complaint

An all too common and serious complaint that many with chronic medical conditions face is when their doctor's stop viewing them as a patient and more as a condition.

Many times I've seen people mention in person, on the net and in support groups that when they experience new symptoms their doctor's make the assumption that it's "part of your condition" and refuse to investigate further, even if the symptom doesn't fit the diagnosis!

We must be our own advocate in situations like us, becoming politely assertive until we obtain the proper medical responses.

-- posted by TvBabe

Permalink Print Discussion Email Discussion Join the latest discussions

» Othello - Paging Dr. Right!

I am fortunate that I have a doctor who pays attention to what I tell him, and believes me. When I need to see a specialist, he may suggest one I have not yet seen, or he may suggest that I can choose one if I know of one in that particular field which I need to see one.

In my situation, it's not my doctor who keeps me from seeing proper specialist, it's my state medical coverage who denies me.

-- posted by Othello

Permalink Print Discussion Email Discussion Join the latest discussions