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White Coat Syndrome

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Anxiety & Panic Disorders
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Posted 7/21/2018 7:04 PM (GMT 0)
Hello,
For as long as I can remember I have always been afraid of doctors and tests. I went to hospital a couple weeks ago and was diagnosed with AFIB. I am scheduled to see the cardiologist next week. I’m terrified. I know my BP will be off the charts and my heart will be racing. No matter what I try to do to calm myself, as soon as they call my name it all goes out the window. I feel so foolish. But I know I have to keep this appt. My anxiety over this diagnosis plus knowing I have to see a cardiologist is constantly on my mind. I just want it over.
Posted 7/22/2018 5:35 PM (GMT 0)
I have a very bad case of White Coat Syndrome. All my doctors know it and expect my blood pressure to be high when I go to see them. There's nothing I can do about it. I did find that if I have an impromptu appointment things are not as bad. Guess I don't have as long to worry about it when I go in the same day the appointment is made.

I always tell the nurses that my b/p will be high in the office, but when I go home and test it will be better. I try taking Xanax before the visit, but it doesn't always help. I have high anxiety in a lot of life situations. Even if I know my kids are coming to visit. I love them and love seeing them, but everything kicks my anxiety into gear.
Posted 7/23/2018 2:24 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Sheepster,

I responded to this concern on your original post about this. (I titled it Anxiety/palps/Cardio Issues for you since it had no title)


...be sure to read it if you've not done so already.

S.C.
Posted 7/23/2018 10:55 AM (GMT 0)
I think your knowing about the AFIB is a good thing, it is a treatable condition. Certainly better than having no diagnosis and still having issues. I have had some health issues as well, but I find that going to the doc and being able to at least rule out serious conditions is a bit comforting. Again, my worst fears about having something serious never materialized time and time again. With that track record now, I don't worry nearly as much.
Posted 7/23/2018 2:36 PM (GMT 0)
Ask the Dr. to take your blood pressure later in the appointment. Mine is almost always lower when I've been there a little while.
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