Hello, everyone!
I decided to post a message on here, because in my next GP visit, which is on June 15th, I am going to ask him about MS, because I think there is a possibility I may have it. Be that as it may, know that I suffer from health anxiety / hypochondria, and am known to worry about things when there is no just cause. I don't really know much about MS; my grandfather actually has it, but I have never really asked him much about it; he's a man of few words. I guess... I'm just after as much information as I can get - what symptoms usually come first, and what are the warning signs? Does diagnosis take as long as online sources say it does? How much does it effect your every day life? I just feel like, if I prepare myself for it, it won't hit me as hard. This may just be a case of me being silly, I just get so scared. I would appreciate any help you can give me.
Hi David, I think that you're jumping the gun a bit. You reference your GP, so I'm guessing you're in the UK. Going through diagnosis with the NHS, isn't a fast process. There isn't a particular order, for the development of new symptoms, with MS, each person gets their own version. You describe yourself as a hypochondriac, it may be harder getting your GP to send you for tests. I recommend keeping an ongoing record of symptoms, it could be useful, if you do end up seeing a neurologist. Try finding something like relaxation exercises, they might help you deal with your anxiety.
Trawling the internet for information about MS, might lead you to lots of misinformation. If you're determined to read up about it, I recommend going to the MS society web site
First, Wendy, thank you for reading my message and for taking the time to reply. Chances are, Wendy, you're right, and I am jumping the gun. It's the health anxiety, it makes me think up horrible things and makes me assume the worst. And, of course, I mean no disrespect to anyone who has MS; I'm not trying to make a joke of it, or make it seem like I am jumping to conclusions over silly, little things, I am just trying to get as much information as I can.
Hi again, I, for one wasn't taking offence, I just slipped into mum mode.
It might be worth your while seeing if your Dr will refer you for some counselling. It's so easy to get really wound up worrying about our health. Counselling might help you take back control.
Good luck
Hello David. I think you should consider asking your GP to send you for counselling. Anyone responding with symptoms will oy feed your hypochondria. Maybe you should try hypnotherapy too as a good hypnotherapist can also find the reason you are obsessed with your health quickly. Is it because if your grandad perhaps? Consider finding a hobby thst will take your mind off obsessing. I wish you well.
I am, I am on the waiting list for something called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which I am hoping will help. I am sick to death of worrying over illnesses that aren't there, or if they are, aren't the end of the world.
Hello, Bic!
I must say, hypnotherapy is something I never considered. Do you think it could work for healthy anxiety?
I'm glad that you're on the waiting list, cognitive behavioural therapy will teach you new coping mechanisms. It'll show you how to bypass the negative behaviour while developing better ways to function.
I think that the fact that you know that you're in a negative spiral and have sought a way back to good thought processes, is great, wanting to change is half the battle, well done. Take care x
Good news, Wendy. It's as if some higher power was reading our conversation. I found out today that my first CBT session is Friday. I'm in the UK, and it's officially Thursday here, so it's technically tomorrow.
Hello sorry I couldn't get on sooner to reply. Yes I do think I can help, in fact I know it can. I have a diploma in it and trained in Dorchester. I know about CBT too, its a Dr's favourite. Like some above I think you've taken a huge step to get help, and should be proud if yourself. Anxiety cam be the root of a lot if things. I have anxiety and I trained in counselling at Southampton Uni. Good luck Friday.
Good luck tomorrow, it's the next step towards regaining your control. It's a matter of time, while you get to grips with the processes you need. You should be proud of yourself. X