Am I Misinterpreting My New Doctor's Actions or Is Something Off?
At the age of 19, I have endured severe back pain for nearly ten years, which I mistakenly attributed to my sizeable chest due to my early onset of puberty. For a long time, I believed this was just part of life, keeping it to myself until around the ages of 15 or 16 when I visited a chiropractor for my ongoing struggle with tech neck. To my surprise, I was informed that my discomfort was not normal. However, most practitioners afterwards suggested my chest size was to blame. About a year and a half ago, the situation escalated when I found it increasingly painful to move my shoulder. A different doctor suspected it might be tendinitis, explaining this was likely based on my young age. I then started physical therapy, which stabilized my pain somewhat but did little to diminish it. Eventually, my therapist deemed me ready to stop after regaining some shoulder mobility. Now, on a better day, I can only tolerate standing for about 30 to 45 minutes before pain strikes, and on a more difficult day, I barely get out of bed except for basic needs. This ongoing issue hampers my work environment, and on my manager's advice, I sought medical leave. When I visited my usual doctor’s office, my regular physician and nurse weren’t available, so I saw someone new. Historically, my doctors attributed my issues to a pinched nerve linked to my chest size, which is why I had never undergone a spinal X-ray before. This new practitioner gave off an odd impression, as though she doubted my pain claims, but I dismissed this when she ordered an X-ray. Weeks later, I accessed the results and, although I’m no expert, I believe that a severe curvature in the spine is not typical. Yet she informed me through the patient portal that I exhibit normal thoracic kyphosis—implying my spine is just fine. Even more perplexing was her completion of my work paperwork, indicating I could return with zero restrictions, despite having shared my entire chronic pain ordeal with her. On top of that, there’s significant celiac disease in my family history, with my mother, several relatives, sister, and myself witnessing a decline in my health. A year ago, I rarely fell ill and had a robust immune response, but now it’s concerning. My brother has PANDAS, and my sister has POTS. I had blood tests done to check for specific markers related to celiac disease, and my IGA levels were alarmingly high, recording 448 mg/dl, compared to a standard range of 47-310 mg/dl. My TTG test came back negative, indicating no inflammation at that time, but when a follow-up test for my IGA was conducted shortly afterward, my result was still elevated at 436 mg/dl, although this new lab’s range was higher at 63-484 mg/dl. The doctor reassured me through the portal that these results were 'fine.' All this information feels suspicious from my perspective, leading to discussions with my mom and grandmother. My mom believes the doctor is downplaying my condition for unknown reasons, while my grandmother thinks it could just be an oversight. I lean more towards my mother’s conclusion since the doctor reviewed the same imaging and test results but saw no alarming indicators. However, my grandmother’s viewpoint has made me second guess myself. I am reaching out for opinions—am I overreacting here, or is this indeed unprofessional behavior, possibly with malice? I can't share images of my X-ray or blood tests on this platform, but I’m open to messaging doctors privately while masking sensitive details.
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 10:20:53 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing a significantly challenging time with your health, and it's completely understandable to feel frustrated and confused about your doctor's responses and medical evaluations. You have raised valid concerns about both your chronic pain and the results of your tests. Let’s break down the key points and outline some next steps for you.
Key Points
- Chronic Pain & Back Issues: You have been dealing with severe back pain for nearly a decade, with evaluations leading to varied opinions about its cause, including issues related to your chest size.
- Conflicting Medical Opinions: A new doctor’s assessment that your spinal curvature is “normal” contradicts your perception based on imaging results, which you find concerning.
- Celiac Disease Concerns: You have elevated IGA levels, which, in conjunction with your family history, raises additional health concerns that you feel are not being taken seriously.
- Need for Clarity: You're feeling dismissed and uncertain about your healthcare, leading to anxiety about whether you are overreacting or if your concerns are valid.
Explanation
Every individual has the right to have their health concerns addressed thoroughly and with respect. It’s important to remember that your pain and symptoms are real, and if you don’t feel your concerns are being adequately validated or investigated, it's completely reasonable to seek further clarification or a different perspective.
Next Steps
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Document Everything:
- Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, pain levels, and how they affect your daily functions (i.e., work, social activities, etc.). This documentation can provide valuable insights into your condition during future appointments.
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Get a Second Opinion:
- Consider consulting another doctor—preferably a specialist in orthopedics or rheumatology—for a second opinion regarding both your spinal health and pain management strategies. This specialist can assess your X-ray and symptoms anew.
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Request Copies of Your Tests:
- Obtain copies of your X-ray results and blood tests to understand them better. This information is often available through your doctor's office or patient portal.
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Discuss Your Concerns:
- If you decide to revisit the current doctor or look for another, prepare a list of specific questions and concerns to ensure you cover all your points. Don't hesitate to express how you feel about the previous feedback on your health.
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Explore Support Networks:
- Given the complex nature of your situation and the anxiety you're feeling, consider connecting with support groups or therapists who specialize in chronic pain and managing anxiety. It can help to discuss your feelings with others who understand.
Reassurance
You are not alone in this journey, and it's critical to advocate for your health. Your concerns are valid, and seeking clarity is important, especially with a family history of celiac disease and chronic symptoms that affect your quality of life. You deserve a supportive approach from your healthcare providers that takes your entire situation into account. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to ask for the care and attention that matches the severity of your symptoms.
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