Referrals, waiting...

kumo · New User Joined: 26 Sep 2006 Posts: 4 Location: Aust.

Hello all.

I'm 19 and I've had a history of reoccuring headaches on no particular side, numbness (predominantly in my left arm), feelings of dizzyness/loss of focus, blurred vision and more recently been feeling lethargic and really unable to focus on things I'm doing. I saw the doctor just last week (I've seen him a few times about the same symptoms before, he thought my mild scoliosis was a problem one time, and had a few blood tests which all came back norm) and he's referring me to a specialist who I'm going to see in about 3 weeks time (which I really hoped could've been sooner...).

I'm a pretty busy guy with uni and I don't really have much time to put up with bothersome things like these symptoms I'm feeling. Even at my age I don't even think I should be worrying about tumours! But I can't help but wonder about those possibilities. The appointment with the specialist is the earliest my doctor could book, should I try make it sooner?

Does anybody have similar experiences or advice that they'd like to share? I'd really appreciate it. Confused

Thanks in advance.
-kumo

DAWAT · New User Joined: 12 Sep 2006 Posts: 8

I am not sure if this will help, but the same sort of thing happened to a very good friend....he had many symptoms and was referred to a specialist only his wait was upwards of 3 - 4 months...what he did was go to emergency ...told them his symptoms...they ordered a CAT Scan...and basically in his case he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and was checked into the hospital...that was back at the end of Jul...had he waited he would still be waiting for the specialist appt....since then he has had surgery and is undergoing chemo...
anyhow, this is in Canada so I am not sure where you are US?? but perhaps that is an option for you?

I hope all turns out well.

cg2forrest · Regular Joined: 11 Jul 2006 Posts: 34

Welcome kumo ... although I hate that your health makes you seek out this place. I concur with our friend DAWAT about going on to the ER. That's not a bad idea.

Many things can cause the symptoms you describe including hypoglycemia and other illness having to do with blood sugar/high blood pressure/thyroid. But whatever the cause you need to be checked out, and the sooner the better of course. If you do decide to go to the ER, make sure you tell them the severity and frequency of each occurrance ... and please let us know what you find out.

God bless you ... hope all goes well for you,
Joy

brainman · Posted: Sat Sep 30, 2006 2:15 pm Post subject: Re: Referrals, waiting...

Kumo, unfortunately doctors often do not respond as fast as they should. So I agree with going to the ER. I have a history of twice having brain cancer. Both times I went to the ER. Both times I received immediate tests and then treatment. In the USA, an Emergency Room usually responds faster than a doctor’s office, especially if you have significant symptoms like yours. They will want to rule out the possibility that you might be having a stroke or a hemorrhage too. You will be in my prayers and thoughts.
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kami88 · Regular Joined: 13 Aug 2006 Posts: 13 Location: Cleveland

Sounds similar to what I have and I have brain cancer. Not saying that you have it but theres always that chance. I went to the ER they suggested a neuroligist and thats how I found out. So maybe you should go to the ER and get checked out! The sooner the better. Good luck

kami88 · Regular Joined: 13 Aug 2006 Posts: 13 Location: Cleveland

Oh i forgot..try to get an mri or catscan if you do go (there not scary or anything ive done it many many times) Your age doesnt matter I'm 18 I was thinking the same thing I ignored my symptoms for a few months until they kept getting worse.

kumo · New User Joined: 26 Sep 2006 Posts: 4 Location: Aust.

Hello all.

I actually saw the specialist (turned out to be consultant physician) yesterday (because a spot opened up). The official diagnosis he gave me was anxiety. Trying not to be skeptical, I took his word for it and he prescribed me some antidepressant I forget the name of. I'm going to be seeing him again three weeks from now for a progress check.

I really do hope its just anxiety knocking me down, but I just can't help but feel it isn't the cause of my problems - I mean, can anxiety really do all those things if I'm obviously still able to feel optimistic Confused

. I get the feeling that on my next visit I should ask him about an MRI or CT which he'll hopefully have done on me. Time will tell I guess.

Thanks for the replies all, they're much appreciated.

kumo · New User Joined: 26 Sep 2006 Posts: 4 Location: Aust.

Just a little update.

I saw my GP again just yesterday to talk about things I discussed with the specialist. I told him I really felt it wasn't anxiety and he seemed quite understanding but was still really puzzled with my health. So he issued me a referral for a head CT which I have to book.

Are CTs safe for a relatively young person like me? especially to the head? I just don't want to take any unnecessary risks. Mad

Sorry if I'm venting a bit... Embarassed

budwig reader · Regular Joined: 08 Oct 2006 Posts: 13

If it's cancer, you must go on the Budwig diet immediatly. It is a proven, but not yet patented cure for cancer. It will save your life. Johanna budwig is Germany's most renouned scientist, and has been nominated for 6 nobel prizes.
Please do it.
Thank you

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