I was wondering, how are you guys able to go to the doctors/ wait for test results without totally going into a panic mode? My anxiety is so so bad right now. I’m having some ibs issues, but just the thought of waiting for tests ect. would drive me into a panic. How does everyone who has health anxiety deal with this issue? Thanks for your input!
Health anxiety question....
- Thread starter MarieB
- Start date
Hi MarieB. I'm fortunate in not having health anxiety but have wondered the same thing for those who do. Personally, I haven't been able to go to the doctor in almost three years because of my generalized anxiety. My doctor is very understanding and refills my meds even though I'm supposed to see him every 6 months to get them renewed. I can feel a physical anxiety response just writing about going to the doctor so you can imagine the panicky feelings that start the moment an appointment is made. So I await the same responses from the health anxiety folks as to how they can go for the testing while being so frazzled by the health anxiety itself.
Hi Marie, I suffer tremendous health anxiety, the trick is to understand that 99.99% and more in most cases , is all in your head. There is nothing wrong with you, and it's remembering that, and having people repeat it too me, makes me realize there is nothing to panic about. I've been to the doctors so many times, for headaches, eyesight, shivers, IBS, adrenaline release, heart palpitations, blood tests for , thyroid, colesterol, I even got so paranoid , i was convinced i had HIV from all the tattoos i have. I done a HIV test, and was so scared when doing it, i almost passed out, never have i felt that rough, and the wait for the results was relentless , but what i did was talk to close friends about it, and every single one of them, told me, there is NOTHING to worry about and NOTHING wrong with you.
It’s definitely scare waiting for results. I don’t really know of any great tips to get through it. You can try scheduling your doctor appointment on a Monday or Tuesday with the hope that you’ll have the results before the weekend. Most doctors offices take just Two or three days to get them to you. This way you don’t have to worry all weekend. Other than that I don’t know any great strategies to get through the waiting period.
He Man
Active Member
- Joined
- Sep 21, 2018
- Messages
- 344
- Reaction score
- 203
Marie, hi..
I know it's easier said, than done.. but accepting that u have no other choice (to wait), may make it more bearable. It's better having to wait a few days vs. wondering indefinitely with no testing/results.. Practicing acceptance is helping me (some).
Peace.
Hi Marie. I know how you feel. Everyone has to wait for answers. Try to keep busy doing something that interests you. That's what I try to do. And remember this. You can have something done to help fix the problem. We have professionals to help.
Hurt&Hopeful
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Jul 28, 2018
- Messages
- 978
- Reaction score
- 513
Hey @MarieB - I don't personally have health anxiety, but I DO have 'anticipatory' anxiety - fancy word for not being able to WAIT. I get all worked up before trips, big events, test results, etc. Not exactly the same, I know...but I am familiar with that area feeling in your stomach that won't go away until whatever it is you're obsessing about actually HAPPENS. I'm curious to see if others have good tips for it ... I try to just live in hour at a time until it's over, and redirect my focus whenever I can. I have a small child, and I've found that focusing on him for a bit and just getting out of my own head and into 'mom mode' helps pass the time.
Hi Marie. I have all kind of anxiety and anticipation (waiting) for something to happen or waiting for results on lab tests and Dr. visits are my worst for me. I find trying to keep busy and getting involved in something else helps. If you have hobbies or like to get engrossed in a book, that helps too. You are not alone. Everyone finds something to help them cope and you will too.
Hi Marie
I went through this same thing for weeks, waiting for test results. I was given an incorrect diagnosis which led to me having heart tests done. I dreaded the postman coming with my next hospital appointment letter or having results sent through the post. It sent my anxiety sky high, I never suffered with it before. After weeks of tests, worry, weight loss, sleepless nights, panic attacks etc I finally had my appointment to give me all my test results.My heart was normal. All that I went through was for nothing and I am still suffering from anxiety because of it 7 years later. I didn't have anyone to talk to about it. My husband didn't understand how I felt so my only advice to you is if you have someone to talk to, someone who will support you, a friend, family member, anyone who can help you feel that you are not alone, then talk to them about how you feel. Maybe someone can go along to the doctors with you, talking helps, I know it would have helped me. Sending best wishes to you.
guitarman65
Active Member
- Joined
- Jan 22, 2019
- Messages
- 148
- Reaction score
- 108
Marie, try asking your lab about getting your results yourself online. My lab does that, i only had to register online, and i have ALL my results within a few hours! I think my vitamin d results take the longest for some reason (usually next morning) but all others are online that same day! The results even tell you if each reading is high or low. Been doing it for over a year now with no problems!