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mystery chronic illness

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Anxiety & Panic Disorders
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Posted 10/28/2014 12:42 PM (GMT 0)
For two years, I am been suffering various physical illnesses, a virus, intestinal distress, BPPV, dizziness, vision problems, nausea, headaches, and then the anxiety kicked in. I was doing fairly well then last week, I relapsed and am feeling lousy again with the headaches, dizziness and general malaise. I have been tested for Lyme, all other co-infections, thyroid problems, low blood sugar, GERD, sinusitis ( had a CT scan, normal $600 later), anemia, HIV, and I am sure a myriad of other things. Any ideas out there. I have a doctor's appointment on Thursday. I am back at work just because I need the money and I cannot sit home any more.
Posted 10/28/2014 1:47 PM (GMT 0)
Cd,

My best friends mom has had a mystery illness for many years now. She has been tested for a ton of different conditions too.
She was negative for Lyme, but was still treated for it. She was positive for valley fever (which is a disease you get from being in the desert, yet she has never been to the desert) and treated for that too. She, too, struggles with anxiety. I wish I could say something to help you as this has to be so frustrating.
Posted 10/28/2014 2:16 PM (GMT 0)
The Lyme treatment gave me an esophagus problem. I spent thousands of dollars on tests and treatments caused by taking Doxycycline for the Lyme disease that I didn't have. I am still banking on an undiagnosed virus.
Posted 10/28/2014 2:25 PM (GMT 0)
C.D.

Why are you looking for a dx beyond anxiety? It can and does cause the symptoms that you describe...

Is there a reason why you are hestitant to believe that this could be nothing more ?

How have you responded to medication and therapy/self-help thus far? (sorry, I forget sometimes what all our members have tried)

If you respond well to the treatments for anxiety...(even for a time, and it returns) then it is likely you might just be dealing with anxiety.

Just thoughts to ask yourself and discuss with your doctor.

Wishing you the answers that you need!!

S.C.
Posted 10/28/2014 2:38 PM (GMT 0)
I had all the physical symptoms for two years before I got the anxiety. I guess the Paxil and Lamictal are helping but I still wake up every morning with anxiety and struggle to not take the Attivan. Even when I do take it, I am not sure that it does much good. The anxiety dissipates by 8 o'clock in the morning but the physical symptoms remain. Right now it is dizziness and a slight headache and exhaustion.
Posted 10/28/2014 3:09 PM (GMT 0)
C.D.

Yeah, I hear you! When I had my first panic attack...it came out of left field...I did not even register that I was anxious.

Talk with your doctor at your appointment, and get his/her honest assessment. If it is believed that you are indeed dealing with anxiety, then continuing to do all that you can to manage it will be your best course of action.

I know how frustrating trying to figure out all of the physical symptoms can be...and sometimes it a combination of anxiety and an organic issue, such as allergies/sinus issues that are all working together...making everything a confusing mix of escalating symptoms.;/

Hopefully you get some good guidance at your appointment!

S.C.
Posted 10/28/2014 3:27 PM (GMT 0)
I have met my deductible so I am just as eager to do tests to rule out what it could be. I say "Bring it on" any tests she wants to do I am fine with. We argued about getting an MRI for my headaches. Now that I don't have to pay for it, I am fine and almost eager to go ahead with it. I have two months until I have to start paying again.
Posted 10/28/2014 4:37 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Circus Dog

Anxiety can cause all the symptoms you mention and more the list is endless so maybe it's the anxiety/stress you need to have a look at as it sounds like you have ruled out every thing else. Medications can help with anxiety and Paxil is a good choice for treating anxiety but they are not a cure all so it's important to do some type of therapy such as CBT which helps you to identify your triggers to anxiety and then teaches you ways of dealing with the anxiety so it does not have such an impact on your life.

Hibee
Posted 10/28/2014 4:55 PM (GMT 0)
I am in therapy, not sure about CBT.
Posted 10/28/2014 4:59 PM (GMT 0)
Hello dear friend

Keep your mind off this appointment until you get there. It will only add to your anxiety.... It obvious that you are stressing this

Coping skills and healthy distractions are in order for you young lady!

As soon as you feel your mind slipping off to "Negative Town" or "Worry Ville", then bring it back! Try to be positive, it will do wonders for your state of mind!

Let us know how the appointment goes but no more thinking about until you get there!

Cornell
Posted 10/28/2014 5:28 PM (GMT 0)
I am actually looking forward to the appointment. I don't have to pay for it this time. I am looking for answers. The woman I see is very smart but has lousy patient skills. I have my team of compassionate practitioners ( acupuncture, Chinese herbs, physical therapy, counseling and psychiatry) to rely on for the support I need. My primary is my source for medical answers, I hope.
Posted 10/28/2014 5:34 PM (GMT 0)
That's great then.... Happy thoughts at all times!
Posted 10/29/2014 11:16 AM (GMT 0)
I started out with a panic attack, not diagnosed as a panic attack. Since then I have had many tests. I struggle to believe that all the physical symptoms I get are related to anxiety. Especially in periods they flare and seem to never subside. I got some books from the library and found all my symptoms in there. I too have had many tests done and show negative. Part of me is happy it is negative but confused about how my brain all of a sudden makes my body feel so many symptoms. Is easy to believe there's another answer (an easier answer to comprehend). I wish you the best of luck! Get your tests now while you can!
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