Finally the GP listened

Hey everyone!

So my chronic illness journey, like for many, has been complicated! It took them 5 years to diagnose me with Multiple Sclerosis, and then 10 years after that they said they were wrong and discharged me from Neurology. I was referred to a Rheumatologist and finally diagnosed with Fibromyalgia…but then they discharged me too…

Since then I have relied heavily on my local GP, and intermittent referrals to physiotherapy to deal with my illness. So I went from ten years with a specialist nurse, specialist neurologist, and psychologist to nothing and I have often questioned why but never really had much luck getting an answer.

Today I returned to my GP with new symptoms:

• Pressure migraines thanks to the pain and cramping I experience from Fibro in my shoulders and neck
• Dizzy spells
• Almost passing out if I bend down and then stand up again

Honestly I was sure that I would not get much help from the doctor because I never do and it was a new GP I saw, I wish I could say I was hopeful and determined but after almost 3 years with no real back up for my illnesses I had more or less given up.

However, when I saw the GP she listened to me and looked back in my files and agreed that I should have more help and a regular specialist who can support me more with my symptoms and who will help me. It felt like such a relief to be taken seriously and listened to and to be told she would make sure I was referred to someone and got the help I need.

I really felt so much lighter and almost like crying as I left the doctors because I have just been told to drink more water, light exercise and to maybe have a referral to a physiotherapist. It really felt like the moment my diagnosis changed so did the level of care I received, but my symptoms and my actual experiences with the illness did not change. I am so thankful that I got to see a new doctor today and I am hopeful that I will get better care and be taken more seriously from now on.

Namaste xxx

Share this post: