Hypochondria

Hi. I have been suffering from health anxiety since I was 8 years old. I am now 41. Currently I am worried about colon cancer again even though I had a colonoscopy in 2011 (mid) and the bowel was clear except for some inflammation which they biopsied. It came back normal. But recently this fall I was worried about ovarian cancer because I kept feeling the urge to urinate. So my doctor did the whole pelvic exam and two ultasounds. They came back clear as did the recta
Exam. But out of fear I didn't do the fecal occult stool test. Now I am doing it but I am afraid as the urge to pee seems to occur a lot and my mind always jumps to cancer. As well as having indigestion issues which freak me out even more. So tired.... :(

Health anxiety is amongst the most common I think. Since you have had some testing and everything came back normal, when you feel anxious ask yourself "what is the possiblity of this actually happening?" Putting things into perspective sometimes comforts me. What are your symptoms? What are the risk factors? What testing have you had done? What was the outcome? Write all these down and really think about it. This can help me visualize the realness of things. I usually end up laughing at myself and feeling silly... but anxiety is so real, I know. Hope you can put your mind at ease soon. :)

It is hard to find someone to get in to see sometimes. Keep looking. If you are limited because of your insurance...then keep calling and get on a waiting list if need be. At least that way you are on your way...and you may get in sooner than expected due to a cancellation.

If you have the freedom to see any professional, then broaden your search and look for other p-docs and also therapists.

Great job on giving up the alcohol! It is one of those things that seem like it helps initially...but will only lead to more trouble, so you are wise to quit.:) Best of luck in keeping up with your resolve!

Keep up the good work...it will get better!

S.C.