Doctors, testing, and thanks to all of you for your support!
#46749 - 02/26/04 01:25 PM
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Hi all
Went to the obgyn for my annual pap and told her I was concerned about ovarian cancer due to the change in my IBS symptoms. She said it was good that I had done some research and scheduled a Pelvic/OB Ultrasound to screen for ovarian cancer. She didn't recommend the CA-125 blood test (I think she said that test is used after you already have been diagnosed with cancer). I am also being referred to a gastroenterologist.
Anyway, I am glad that she took my concerns seriously although I did get that sense that I was coming across as a hypochondriac.  Do you ever get that feeling with doctors? This obgyn was actually pretty good. Lady doctor, marathon runner so I proudly told her that I was up to two miles  before this latest bout with IBS stuff. I find that male doctors don't take me as seriously (this is just my experience). Even my husband, who is wonderful, has difficulty understanding what IBS is all about.
Driving home from my appointment, I realized that perhaps here, on these boards, is the only place where folks take me and my IBS seriously. That y'all don't think I'm "over-reacting" and being hysterical. That made me smile and get teary all at the same time.
So thanks for the support and encouragement.
Janet
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Hi Janet,
I feel exactly the same way about these boards being my sole 100% support. My husband also, is pretty good about my IBS but there are always times when he says or wants to do things that just won't work for me and IBS and I have to remind him. But, that is probably true of any "condition" that one doesn't have for themselves. That's why I like these boards---we're all in the same boat! I wish I could find someone in my community that has IBS so we could talk. They always talk about how prevalent IBS is, but I swear I am the only one in my whole community and those surrounding me that has it! I've never actually met a real person that has IBS yet! Still hoping! Anyway......hope your dr. exam comes out good so you don't have that worry anymore. Think positive and hang in there! Talk later! 
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Hi Tierny
Just the other day, my dh was invited to a party and wanted me to come, too. Just so happens I've been experiencing the worst IBS in years so I said I couldn't. He innocently says, "Well, Alex has a bathroom in his house, too, you know!"
I wasn't mad, but I was a little frustrated. I don't think he realizes how embarrassing it is to go somewhere where you don't know the people real well and have to camp out in their bathroom! 
Sometimes I feel sorry for my dh. It must seem like I'm such a party pooper!
I'm glad you found these boards and are feeling encouraged and supported here. I know it makes all the difference.
Janet
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Good for you! It's important no matter how awkward it is to say - you said it! The doctors need to take your concerns seriously. Besides, I think that awkwardness is a small price to pay when it comes to your health. Besides, does it REALLY matter if they think we're a little nutso? As you said, we've got this board.
--------------------
Formerly HanSolo. IBS, OCD, Bipolar, PTSD times 3.
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Hi pescado.
I just wanted to say that I dentify with how you think drs. might think you're a hypochondriac. The only difference with me is that I think my family members probably think I am. Sometimes I even think it! haha But, I do think we have to listen to our bodies and if something's not right, then we should pursue it no matter what anyone thinks. I've had a big change in my ibs symptoms recently, too. And, I'm anxious to find out if there's any underlying cause. (I'm waiting to be approved for insurance; it's taking forever--they keep needing more information!) I imagined everything; you know what I mean. Well, I just wanted you to know that you're certainly not alone at all when it comes to the emotions, thoughts and fears, and the myriad of things that can accompany a chronic condition like ibs. I just love these boards, too! Finally; a place where I can talk and listen and educate myself about all of this. It really is nice to be taken seriously. This is the only place I've ever been where I can ask all the questions I need to ask and where I feel comfortable talking about my symptoms and my fears! Well, keep us posted concerning when your tests are done and the results!
Terri
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