Recurring Illness Issues
At 26 years old, I've been diagnosed with Autism, Migraines, and Interracial Hypertension. My autism makes it particularly challenging to articulate my symptoms, which often leads to confusion, as I sometimes feel discomfort in areas that may not directly correspond to where the problem lies. This has frustrated many doctors I've consulted. I’m reaching out because scheduling an appointment with my general practitioner (GP) tends to be quite difficult, and I’ve spent the entire night dealing with discomfort and pain. I intend to call my GP as soon as their office opens in the morning. Here’s a summary of my symptoms and my current situation: - Each time I visit friends, which requires nearly a five-hour train journey, I experience vomiting on the first night. - Typically, I will be sick once or maybe twice, but afterwards, I feel better and can finally sleep. - Unlike previous times, this time the pain and nausea persisted even after I vomited. - The feeling of nausea only arises when I try to lie down to sleep, regardless of how late it is. - I also experience shivering and shaking. - There’s a dull backache reminiscent of mild kidney infection pain. However, this time there are no associated urinary symptoms, and it coincides with my visits. - My trips to friends happen about once a month, usually on the weekends, but this time it falls on a weekday. I’m also planning to go again soon since it’s my birthday month, but to be honest, I’m not looking forward to it. - The experience of going to see my friends has become quite a source of anxiety for me. - I’ve maintained my usual diet, and I feel fine throughout the day, as far as I can recall. - Occasionally, I feel dizzy during the train ride, but there’s a significant time gap between that and bedtime. - Being upright generally helps alleviate the symptoms, but as soon as I lie down, the discomfort returns. - I’ve had similar episodes in the past where I would inexplicably fall ill with back pain and vomiting, which could last several days. Recently, however, these symptoms seem to coincide only with traveling to visit my friends. I’ve penned these thoughts while experiencing the symptoms, as I often struggle to remember them accurately. I apologize for any lack of clarity in my writing. Since I don’t typically share my experiences online, I appreciate your understanding. I’m feeling miserable and frustrated with this ongoing situation, especially since my GP was unable to provide assistance last time I presented with similar symptoms.
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 6:01:13 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort related to your travel and the symptoms you've described. Your situation is complex due to autism and other existing health conditions, which can make it challenging to communicate your needs effectively. It's important to focus on managing your symptoms while also preparing for a more in-depth discussion with your GP.
Summary of Key Points:
- Your symptoms, including vomiting, persistent nausea when lying down, and back pain, seem linked to travel and possibly anxiety related to visiting friends.
- You have a pattern of these symptoms occurring specifically during such trips, which adds to your anxiety.
- Maintaining hydration and comfort while traveling and trying to understand symptom triggers could help in managing your situation more effectively.
Explanation:
Many people experience nausea and vomiting due to motion sickness or anxiety, especially during long journeys. The fact that your symptoms often improve once you're upright suggests that they may be related to positional changes in your body or stress. The dull back pain, which can resemble kidney infection pain, could be correlated with muscle tension from stress or discomfort while traveling.
Next Steps:
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Hydrate and Rest: If you're still feeling unwell, focus on staying hydrated. Small sips of water or an electrolyte drink can help. Try to rest in a comfortable position—sitting up may ease your nausea.
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Identify Triggers: Consider keeping a simple diary or note of when your symptoms occur. This can help both you and your GP understand any patterns or specific triggers related to your travel.
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Prioritize Communication: When you speak to your GP, share the specific symptoms you've experienced, their frequency, and any correlations you’ve noticed with travel or other stressors. If you find it difficult to articulate these in person, writing them down beforehand may help.
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Consider Pre-Travel Medications: Discuss potential options for medications that can ease travel-related nausea or anxiety, such as anti-nausea medications or calming agents, especially before your next trip.
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Relaxation Techniques: Explore relaxation techniques that might ease travel anxiety, such as deep breathing or listening to calming music while traveling.
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Post-Trip Review: After your visit, review how your symptoms developed. This can be a pivotal conversation starter for your GP during your next appointment.
Emotional Support:
It’s completely valid to feel frustrated and anxious about these experiences. Consider reaching out to someone you trust to share your thoughts or feelings about your upcoming travel and symptoms. Understanding, even from friends or family, can be reassuring.
If your symptoms worsen or if you experience severe discomfort such as intense back pain or prolonged vomiting, reconsider seeking emergency care. Please remember you are not alone in this, and your experiences and feelings are important.
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