Hi
There is one striking change in my health anxiety which got bad in May this year worrying about swollen lymph nodes.
Since that time my mind has been in panic 'what is it' mode, going to the doctor every week, demanding tests etc. Really trying hard to get to the bottom of it.
I have had blood tests galore, Full body ct scan, chest xray - all normal.
I have also been taking antidepressants for 6 weeks and diazapam for 3 weeks - both these medications have certainly calmed me down and I think it's more the antidepressants than diazapam because I can go a day without taking diazapam and feel no different. I take the diazapam each morning more like an insurance policy. But I am not posting this message to discuss diazapam... Anyhow back to the point....
After the 'all clear' CT scan I decided to STOP going to the doctors for 2 weeks and give myself a break - I have done this very successfully and almost had a normal life for 2 weeks! The next step when visiting the GP is to discuss what is causing this neck pain and maybe pay for a private MRI scan.
NOW here is what has CHANGED dramatically in my mind.
I am now too scared to go back to the doctors and start this rigmarole all over again - previously I was knocking the surgery door down but now my mind has started to think differently.
I am in an 'OK' state of mind, been busy at work, socially more active etc etc. But ultimately in the back of my head I know I need to pursue more tests for this neck pain and now deep down i feel 'it must be serious'.
My mind now feels like 'putting off' going to the doctors because I dont want to ruin where I am....also in my darkest thoughts I feel that the fact i DONT know whats wrong, is almost better than finding out I have a serious terminal illness.
Im not sure if ive made sense but does anyone get me?