Need support for recent diagnosis

Well, I finally made it to the eye doctor and actually surprised myself that I handled it better than I expected I would. However, I went in expecting a diagnosis of a cataract and in fact it turned out to be macular edema...fluid behind the eye. Doc did a ct scan on my eye and said the good thing is that it's not leaking blood but rather fluid which can be managed by having eye drained regularly. Of more concern to him is what is causing it...he says it's usually either diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. He doesn't think it's from diabetes (although he said I could have that) but rather blood pressure that hasn't been managed properly (I've been on the same Bp med for years and must now need a change). So now I have to go to a regular GP and find out what, if anything, is going on with BP or anything else and THIS is what's freaking me out now....I've been so neglectful of my health out of fear that now I'm convinced something real serious is going on. Only good thing is that I haven't had a cigarette since I walked out of his office last Friday....and that's saying alot for me. Yes, I'm scared to death of what diagnosis might be down the road so I hope I can count on support from you folks once again because you are the people I lean on the most (I don't like to worry my family). I probably can't get in to anyone til at least next week but I'll update you.

Hey Andwes, first of all I am happy that you managed it well during the dr visit.

As for your diagnosis, I also doubt diabetes because I have a far relative who is around your age and she has diabetes. I am thinking that you would definitely have other notable symptoms of diabetes. I am guessing you don't have those. But of course your dr, naturally, must mention all possibilities they were taught in during education.

Can be well blood pressure. You know my core family - all members - my dad, mom, grandma, uncle, etc all have high bp and I probably will have too. I am not worrying really because if you manage to balance it with treatment, it is cool. My grandma had it when she was just around 25.

Don't start freaking out just too soon :) I am pretty sure you are fine. Remember, you were fine, you will be <3 I believe in that

Don't worry, we are here for you no matter what! We all understand what it's like to worry about something like this.

Hi

As you can see we are all here to support you and understand the worry you are going through keep us posted.

Hibee

I'm here to support you too!

If it is diabetes, that can be treated & managed. So can your BP. That's all good news in the worst case scenarios!

And no cig since Friday is a huge deal! They say cold turkey is the most permanent way to quit. I smoke too (it's intersting how we both smoke & yet struggle w/health anxiety...). And we're smart & know better BUT it's an addiction that doesn't discriminate. If you stay quitting, I will try too. No pressure LOL

Hugs,
Lisa

Andwes,

My mom has low pressure glaucoma, so has to have the procedure similar to what you'll do I believe.

At first this was really scary and a challenge for her, as she had similar dr. phobias...

However, I after going through the first few appointments, she has come to a place of being at peace with going in for her health screenings.

I am sure that you will have the same experience. The first couple of appointments may be a hurdle...so prepare for them as best you can. (bring a 'safety buddy', practice your coping skills, plan a reward for your bravery!, ect...)

This is not the best of news of course...but it could end up being an enexpected blessing in that helps you to conquer this long standing fear...and free you from its bonds!

Amazing job on taking the first few steps!!

We are with you through this journey...keep us posted, and we'll keep you supported!

S.C.

I'm sure it's not diabetes. I have a couple friends that have recently been diagnosed with type 2 and they were having all types of symptoms. Really thirsty, tired after meals, and a bunch of other syjptoms u would notice.

Hi Andwes

Just remember that high blood pressure or high cholesterol aren't dangerous in themselves, they are merely 'predictors' of potential problems in the long term. So hopefully they can find which it is and find a medicine to control it, then you dont need to worry about it.