Struggling to Get Medical Attention for Ongoing Issues
Age: 27 Weight: 160 lbs Height: 5'1" Currently taking: Only a multivitamin I have a history of anxiety that I've been coping with through various methods. As a child, I experienced seizures due to a car accident but have been medication-free and seizure-free for nearly 15 years. At the end of December 2024, I encountered a severe case of food poisoning after eating sushi at a nearby restaurant. The experience was harrowing; I spent the night vomiting and, the next day, I fainted in the shower from extreme dehydration. This incident landed me in the hospital for three days because my heart rate was unusually high. During my stay, I received IV fluids, and they monitored my heart closely. Although I was required to wear a heart monitor and my blood pressure was tested in multiple positions (lying down, sitting, and standing), the results were stable. Specialists in neurology, infectious disease, and cardiology evaluated me; I was given a clean bill of health from the first two, but the cardiologist recommended an echocardiogram. That test came back normal, and the cardiologist even remarked on the strength of my heart. Despite being told I was fine and could resume swimming, I still felt dizzy and unwell. I was discharged on Christmas Eve. After the holidays, on December 26th, I tried to book an appointment with my primary care physician because I was experiencing dizziness and persistent fatigue. However, my usual doctor was on vacation, so I saw another physician the following morning. He reviewed my hospital discharge summary and notes, and when I explained that I hadn’t received any instructions upon leaving, he expressed surprise, noting I should have been given guidance. He advised me to hydrate and advised against excessive resting due to the risk of blood clots. He reassured me that without a clotting condition and with moderate activity, I should be fine. He mentioned recovery might take up to three months for my energy levels to return to normal. In the following days, I made sure to drink plenty of fluids and some electrolyte drinks, and I began to feel a bit of an energy boost. On average, I consume 80 to 96 ounces of water daily, taking recovery step by step. Nonetheless, I still struggle with occasional dizziness. Desiring to check my blood and electrolyte levels, I scheduled an appointment with my primary care provider and went for blood work the week prior to my appointment on April 1st. The nurse had difficulty drawing blood from me, as I have notorious rolling veins, which caused her to struggle with the first attempt. She exhausted multiple needles, and in frustration, she sent me away, suggesting I return on another day. I inquired about a particular day for a follow-up, but her response was indifferent. The next morning, I received a call from my physician, who informed me she would not approve getting my blood drawn. Despite explaining my ongoing issues stemming from severe dehydration and my wish to ensure my health was intact, she insisted I was fine and attributed my symptoms solely to anxiety. I pressed for the blood test, but she maintained her stance that it was unnecessary. Lately, I've been regularly monitoring my blood pressure, which remains within normal ranges—typically between 106-120 systolic and 65-78 diastolic. Still, I’m uncertain if this could be contributing to my unsteadiness. I feel like my concerns are brushed aside and labeled as mere anxiety. Previously, I’ve been genuinely ill when my worries were dismissed as anxiety. How can I effectively advocate for my health when it seems my doctor is overlooking my genuine concerns?
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 1:40:53 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel frustrated when your concerns seem to be dismissed, especially after a serious health event. Your history and current symptoms warrant attention, and you deserve a thorough evaluation. Here’s a structured approach to help you navigate this situation effectively.
Main Points:
- Your Symptoms Are Valid: Ongoing dizziness and fatigue, especially after a severe dehydration incident, should be taken seriously.
- Advocating for Your Health: You need to assertively communicate your health concerns to ensure they are addressed adequately.
Explanation:
It sounds like you've experienced a lot of physical stress from your food poisoning episode, and your body's recovery may be complicated by the lingering symptoms. It's not uncommon to feel dismissed when anxiety is associated with your symptoms, especially given your medical history. However, your desire for further investigation into your health status is justified.
It is essential to ensure that any potential underlying issues—beyond anxiety—are fully explored. Dizziness can be caused by various factors, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or less commonly, cardiac issues. Even though your tests have generally come back normal, persistent symptoms warrant a closer look.
Next Steps:
-
Request a Second Opinion: If you feel your doctor is not addressing your concerns, consider seeking a second opinion from another primary care physician. Bring your medical history and documentation related to your recent hospitalization and symptoms.
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Prepare for Your Appointment: When meeting with a new doctor, bring notes on your symptoms, including:
- Frequency and duration of dizziness.
- Any other symptoms you're experiencing (e.g., fatigue, heart palpitations).
- Previous medical history (particularly your episodes of dehydration and anxiety).
- Any treatments or lifestyle changes you've implemented since December.
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Consider a Holistic Approach: If you're open to it, you might explore complementary therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy for your anxiety, which could help address the psychological stress you feel regarding your health.
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Monitor Symptoms Regularly: Keep a symptom diary detailing your daily symptoms, activities, hydration levels, and any potential triggers for dizziness. This can provide valuable information for your next healthcare visit.
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Stay Patient But Persistent: It can take time to recover from significant illness, and while some fatigue is typical, persistent symptoms should not be taken lightly. If you feel your health is deteriorating or if new symptoms arise, do not hesitate to emphasize the urgency of the situation when seeking help.
Conclusion:
It's crucial to advocate for your health and ensure that your concerns are taken seriously. Exploring a second opinion, preparing thoroughly for your appointments, and keeping a close eye on your symptoms can help you navigate this challenging situation. Your wellbeing is important, and with persistence, you can find the support you need.
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