Experiences with Emergency Departments: A Deeply Troubling Journey
In my previous post, I described some difficult encounters at two different emergency departments. To provide context, I am currently a 33-year-old female identifying as AFAB and pursuing a Master's in Psychology, intending to specialize in neuro-imaging. I have been diagnosed with ASD and ADHD and I take medications including sertraline, adderall, and occasionally propranolol. On June 10th, my urogynaecologist referred me for an MRI; however, I received no follow-up care afterward. A peer review of the initial findings by the radiologist is ongoing, and the patient relations department is involved. I have been experiencing significant pain, unusual bleeding, discharge with an odor, lower back discomfort, and incontinence, which has unfortunately forced me to leave a job I cherished. My blood tests have indicated infection and irregular liver function. During my last visit to the ED, the doctor kept me for over ten hours without providing food or water. He dismissed my concerns regarding Caudal Duplication Syndrome and the possibility of uterine cancer, failing to recognize my endometriosis and omitting critical information about the size of my uterus from the CT scan in his report. He spoke only a couple of sentences to me and refused my requests for a second opinion or transfer to another facility. Discontented with this experience, I sought help at a different emergency department the following day. Here, the attending physician diagnosed me with "Delusional Disorder" and labeled me as "Gravely Disabled," which resulted in being placed in a barren room with urine on the floor. I was manhandled and administered sedatives, enduring a 24-hour hold with my phone confiscated. My abnormal imaging results and bloodwork were ignored entirely. My psychiatrist is aware of the mistreatment I've faced at these facilities, and he has diligently documented various aspects of my mental health, including my autism, which I believe contributes considerably to this ongoing mistreatment. I am struggling emotionally with these distressing experiences, and I have recorded instances of elevated blood pressure without any plan for follow-up care. At home, my partner's perception of my situation as being irrational only heightens my anxiety and distress.
Answers (1)
7/6/2025, 6:40:49 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the distressing experiences you've had with the emergency departments and the ongoing health issues you're facing. It sounds overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. Let's focus on how to best manage your symptoms and advocate for your health moving forward.
Main Points:
- You are experiencing significant physical symptoms (pain, unusual bleeding, discharge, etc.) and have faced inadequate responses in emergency settings.
- Emotional distress is heightened by perceived dismissiveness from medical professionals and a lack of follow-up care.
- You need both a plan for managing your physical health and support for your emotional well-being.
Explanation:
Your symptoms, including pain, unusual bleeding, and signs of infection, are valid concerns that warrant serious attention. The fact that you feel your physical health issues are being dismissed is incredibly frustrating and can exacerbate your emotional challenges, especially with a background of ASD and ADHD where communication barriers can complicate interactions with healthcare professionals.
It is crucial that you have a structured approach to express your health concerns effectively and ensure you receive appropriate care. Additionally, emotional support is essential given the distress you've experienced.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Tracking:
- Maintain a detailed symptom diary where you document your physical symptoms, emotional state, and any interactions with healthcare providers. This can help clarify your experiences and be useful in future consultations.
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Consider a Primary Care Provider (PCP):
- If you haven't already, seek a primary care provider who can oversee your health care and coordinate with specialists. They can ensure all your symptoms are reviewed comprehensively.
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Advocate for Yourself:
- During future medical appointments, clearly outline your critical concerns. You can start by discussing your MRI results and ask specific questions about your diagnoses and any proposed treatments. If you feel unheard, don’t hesitate to request to speak to another healthcare provider or to have someone accompany you for support.
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Mental Health Support:
- Connect with a mental health professional who specializes in coping strategies for people with ASD and ADHD. Therapists can provide you with coping mechanisms for the distress you've felt from your medical care encounters.
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Support System:
- It may be beneficial to communicate openly with your partner about how their perception affects your emotional well-being. Perhaps sharing your symptom diary with them can help them understand your experiences more deeply.
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Emergency Plan:
- If you need to visit an emergency department again, prepare a concise summary of your health history, current medications, and specific concerns. This can help streamline communication with the staff.
Closing Thoughts:
Your experiences have been understandably difficult, and you deserve compassionate and thorough care. Remember to prioritize your health above all else. If you ever feel overwhelmed, do not hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. You are not alone in this, and there are pathways to better health and support.
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