Scheduling w/ new doctor and sick w/ fear

[myWorldofWorry]

Hi, everyone. I am looking for some words of encouragement. I have a variety of frustrating chronic symptoms. I've seen my family doctor many times over the past few years, as well as some specialists. No real answers. I now have chronic pain symptoms that are really impacting my quality of life. I'm pregnant and cannot take anything for them. But that's not the main issue. More than anything, I am concerned about what's behind my symptoms, and just hope that it's nothing dire. For a while, I have been debating whether to see a new primary care doctor. I've been seeing the same family doctor since childhood, and with my history of anxiety I'm not always sure how seriously she takes me. It just feels time for a new perspective.

Having anxiety, I also am very aware of the pitfalls of doctor hopping and seeking continued reassurance. So, it has been a tough decision choosing whether to see a new physician. I feel damned if I do, damned if I don't. But last night, as I was driving home from work feeling pain after pain after pain, I just couldn't take it anymore. It's not normal to feel this way, and I want a doctor who can look across my symptoms and perhaps see the bigger picture. I need answers, but at the same time am terrified of what they could be.

I found a well-reviewed general internist about an hour from my home and felt like she might be a good fit, despite the distance. So I sent the office an appointment request. I have mixed emotions. I truly do not want to go - it makes me sick with fear. But, at the same time, living in limbo stinks. I hope I don't let my anxiety stop me from going. And more than anything I hope I get some answers that aren't terrible.

[gcalex]

What kind of pain? 

[vardnas]

Have any of the doctors you've been made any kind of diagnosis? Even anxiety?

Getting a second opinion isn't, generally speaking, a bad idea, but have you asked yourself if the opinion of another doctor is really going to help ease your fears? You're so convinced that your diffuse symptoms all add up to something more serious, but what if this well-reviewed doctor takes a look at you and can't find anything, either? Will you truly believe them? Or will you want to seek out a third opinion?

[greend]

Myworldofworry, I remember you posting in the past and I know that your symptoms have been pretty continuous.  Maybe a second opinion of a well respected doctor isn't such a bad idea.  If nothing else, she will have a fresh perspective. 

Let us know how your visit goes and if she might have any answers for you.

Congratulations on your pregnancy.