Health update: I know some of you have followed me for awhile, but some people are new. While I was in the Navy, I started having hip pain. It was mildly annoying and over the course of two years escalated to agony. Around that time I started using a cane. Since then nobody has been able to figure out why I feel like this. Ive gotten no answers on why Im in pain despite seeing 10-15 different doctors for it. The only specialist I havent seen yet is rheumatology and no one wanted to send me. I begged and begged and finally got a consult. I saw a rheumatologist Friday. She tested the tenderness of various parts of my body. She determined that I dont have fibromyalgia (it had been on the table for awhile) because its not widespread enough (you need 11 out of 18 points). But after the examine I discovered that there were parts of my body that I didnt even know hurt until she touched it. Interestingly enough all my painful points were on my right side which perplexed both of us. Since Levi was sick he didnt come. Im glad he didnt because I was crying and screaming from the pain of the exam. But I think it told us some important information. This doctor is the first one that had a plan after examining me. I cant tell you how many doctors have turned me away because my case was too odd or complicated. She did admit that it was going to be difficult to diagnose. But its refreshing that she had ideas and didnt just send me away. I have 5 or 6 tests to do before I see her again. She is fairly sure my pain is neurological which is something none of my doctors have explored before. Its been four years since this all started. I have new hope that one day I wont need my wheelchair or cane or mobility harness. Its been a long time since I had this type of hope that I might get answers instead of shrugs. Ive learned a lot from my fellow disabled veterans. You really have to fight and push for what you need. It wont be given to you. Scream until they listen. (Im sorry this is so long, but it was something I wanted to share. This year I was also diagnosed with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, but thats for another day and another post!) -Bridget (Levis mom)
Posted on: Sat, 16 Aug 2014 18:24:33 +0000