Seeking Better Medical Support for My Health Concerns
At 18 years of age, I identify as female, and aside from vaping, I don’t consume alcohol. I’m currently prescribed 100 mg of sertraline in conjunction with 7.5 mg of aripiprazole. My weight is 61 kilograms, and I stand approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall. Over the last year, I have been dealing with incessant auditory hallucinations; specifically, I hear the voices of the men who inflicted abuse upon me during my childhood. Although I recognize that these voices are not real, they persist in my mind and exert a powerful influence over my behavior. At times, I find myself compelled to physically harm myself, collide with walls, strike various objects, or even perform odd actions like barking—essentially, they dictate my physical movements. Moreover, I am experiencing a range of physical manifestations, including motor tics, spasms, tremors, and more recently, difficulties with swallowing. I also suffer from frequent headaches, diminished sensory perception, and episodes of dissociative amnesia alongside fugue states. My psychiatrist has diagnosed me with dissociative conversion disorder and recently adjusted my antipsychotic medication, yet I have not found significant relief, and my swallowing challenges seem to be escalating. Given my experiences, I am questioning whether this aligns with dissociative conversion disorder or if there may be a different underlying issue. Should I continue to communicate my concerns regarding the voices, motor symptoms, and swallowing difficulties to my general practitioner, or should I allow my doctor to deduce the situation on their own?
Answers (1)
3/30/2025, 6:20:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's commendable that you're actively seeking better medical support for your complex health concerns. Your symptoms, including persistent auditory hallucinations, motor tics, swallowing difficulties, and others, indicate a need for thorough evaluation and ongoing communication with your healthcare providers. Here are the main points to consider:
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Communication with Your Doctor: It is crucial to regularly share all your symptoms and concerns with your general practitioner (GP) and psychiatrist. Transparency will help them understand your situation better and adjust your treatment accordingly.
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Understanding Your Condition: Based on the symptoms you describe—auditory hallucinations, dissociative episodes, and motor symptoms—your diagnosis of dissociative conversion disorder can be valid. However, these symptoms can also sometimes overlap with other neurological or psychiatric conditions, which is why ongoing assessment is essential.
Next Steps:
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including the frequency of auditory hallucinations, instances of self-harm, episodes of tics, and any swallowing challenges. Note when these symptoms worsen or diminish. This information can provide your healthcare team with significant insights.
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Discuss Medication and Treatment Options: Since you've noted that the adjustments in your medication have not led to substantial relief, ensure you voice your experiences regarding the effectiveness and side effects of your current medications to your psychiatrist. Don’t hesitate to ask about alternative treatments or therapies that may better address your symptoms.
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Engage in Supportive Therapies: Explore therapy options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These therapeutic techniques can help you manage symptoms and develop coping strategies. Inquire if your doctor can refer you to a therapist who specializes in trauma and complex mental health issues.
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Address Immediate Concerns: If your swallowing difficulties escalate or if you have any episodes of severe physical distress (like extreme spasms or inability to swallow), prioritize visiting a healthcare professional immediately.
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Build a Support System: Connect with trustworthy friends or family members who can support you during this challenging time. Communicating your feelings and experiences with them can reduce feelings of isolation and provide emotional support.
It's essential that you advocate for yourself and ensure your voice is heard in your care. You're not alone in this journey, and with the right support and treatment adjustments, there is hope for improvement. If you feel overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a helpline or support group for additional guidance and encouragement.
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