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Minimizing, what to focus on?
Mon, 03/19/2007 - 15:50OK, I really need some focusing help here. I posted a whole thing in the new area that I won't repost here but it is here . Even though in there I mentioned the Arterio venous Malformation I had that evidently started my particular epilepsy, I have minimized it in my discussions and thoughts after the current seizure (3 plus weeks ago, for which I am receiving treatment). Minimized it enough to the point that my new epilepsy doctor said I didn't neat an MRI because it wouldn't show anything (he did not have any of my previous records since the neurologist I last saw in 1999 destroyed all my records when I stopped going, rather than sending them to me or my family doctor...that seems odd)... anyway, am I turning into a hypochondriac to think that I *do* need an MRI to determine if there is some worsening of the AVM? I usually underreact and minimize everything but I am a wee bit scared - am I now over compensating? I am feeling crazy. It would seem someone should take a look inside. And I do have an MRI scheduled, but since I do not have any health insurance, maybe I am doing this unnecessraily?
Help. I do have a call into my family doctor asking if he would please send the notes and anything he has from my original neurologist (of 25 or so years ago) over to the new doc...
Comments
Re: Minimizing, what to focus on?
Submitted by DAnneB on Wed, 2007-03-21 - 16:09
Hi, Spiz -- thanks for the reply..
Actually, I think I'm adding to my own anxiety. I really thought all these years when I had insurance that those yearly MRI's were helping me somehow. (Year after year, nothing changed -- through childbirth at 43 and menopause at 50).
The epilepsy doc was pretty clear that he doesn't think the MRI will offer much new on the AVM, or that the AVM has much to do with the reappearance of the seizure(s).
So, I have called his office and asked to cancel the MRI if he thinks it will offer nothing new (but I'm OK keeping it if he thinks it is necessary).
I don't have insurance and have a kid in boarding school, college yet to come, and an 80 year old mother I care for. Would rather spend my time and money taking better care of my self (staying on my meds, exercising, enjoying healthy eating, living well, spending more time with friends and family, setting things in order, but doing things I've wanted to do).
By nature I am a worrier, and nature is giving me stuff to worry about! I need to walk that line between relaxing and planning...
I appreciate your replying to my frantic note!
Re: Minimizing, what to focus on?
Submitted by spiz on Mon, 2007-03-19 - 22:40
It sounds like the MRI would give you alot of peace of mind concerning the state of the AVM. Not knowing is causing you stress, and perhaps a tidbit of fear? If you can swing it, go for it. Peace of mind regarding health issues is always a big plus! Take care! -Spiz