Sorry, but I need help again
#209944 - 08/30/05 07:37 PM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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I'm so sorry, but I need to unload again.
Recently I got some ideas for getting myself out of this dark hole. Mainly, by getting a new GI doc and, also, by getting a counselor to talk about living life with chronic pain, anxiety, and depression that comes along with it.
Well, I gathered up all my stength, made some phone call (this is very difficult to do when you feel beaten down already), and got myself an appointment with a new GI doc. His office is about 20 feet away from my old GI doc's, so I was very scared to go because I felt like a total betrayer.
The appointment was today which was good because I am having a particularly bad tummy day. I left work early and went.
I didn't even finish filling out the paperwork when the nurse calls me back. She takes my BP, asks me what med I am taking and leaves. I'm starting to feel very uncomfortable. These people are not very thorough. I mean, she didn't take any history or anything.
The doctor walks in about 3 or 4 minutes later, and asks me why I am there. I told him I hurt all the time, I'm constipated, and I have not received any advice on how to manage all my symptoms or what to do about my abnormal gallbladder, gastric emptying, and gluten antibodies.
Cutting to the point, he responds by simply telling me there is nothing he can do for me. I am too "dissident" and he doesn't want to waste my money. He decided this after less than 5 minutes?  He said he scanned my chart and feels that I need to go to Mayo or some place in Ohio or even Northwestern in Chicago. I told him I tried to get into Northwestern where there is a good Motility expert but I was told by them that they couldn't help me.  I told him I have no money to go to Mayo or Ohio...that I need a doctor close by. I asked him how he could make this decision without even talking with me or examining my chart. I thought about begging him to see me, but to be honest, he was an A**. He refused to even listen to me. He said he had made his decison and that he wished me well and walked out the door. 
I am dumbfounded. Why can't I find someone to help me? This just makes me believe even more that God wants me to suffer for some reason. Why do I keep getting kicked? It took so much for me to go to someone else and this is how I am treated? I cannot afford to go to Mayo..the hotel costs, no insurance, driving back and forth for follow up? The doctor I saw today told me I need a team of doctors working on me. Well, what if I can't afford that? And what about my job? I just want a GI doctor to listen to me and to help me. What do I do now????
On top of that, I mustered the courage to call some counselors (before I went to this GI appointment). I was told that my insurance will only cover 7 visits per year, at 70% coverage, and a 750 dollar deductible. This is for the out of network Psych I liked. Even if I found one in network, they only cover 20 visits a year at 90% coverage and a 350 dollar deductible. That's less than 2 visits a month. I need more than that...and I don't have an additional 350 dollars for a deductible.
I need help...I need a Good GI doc, and a caring counselor. I am begging them for help, and no one cares...no one cares if I suffer. I'm not their problem and they don't want to make me their problem.
What is wrong with doctors that they will not help someone who is suffering and in pain and just begging for answers and help? I don't know what to do next? How many times must I go into this dark hole before I get buried...and the medical community seems to be shoveling the dirt and dumping it on me.
If these doctors won't help me...you guys must be very sick of me. Who is going to help me? Who is going to tell me what all these tests mean...what I can do to help the pain..what diet is appropriate...if any medications can help?
I actually begged the nurse at the doctor at Northwestern to see me... and she said "sorry, the doctor does not think he can help you". How scary that my body is so screwed up that doctors are refusing to see me? I am at a loss. Is this my life? Pain and suffering and anxiety over not haveing answers.
Tomorrow, I call my shrink and tell him what happened. He is the one who encouraged me to go to another GI. But look what happens when I finally, finally do. Shut down again. 
Seeking advice from my buddies...please don't shut the door on me...please, don't get sick of me ...don't tell me I am too complicated to help... And, all who pray, keep praying. I am not doing well.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Beth, this really pains me to read. Not because I find you to be annoying, you know that is not the case. What apins me is all the crap you have to go through. I feel awful for you. I cannot imagine how you must feel. All I can say is that you must keep trying different doctors until you find one that can help you. I have a feeling your health insurance may not be good (not your fault at all) and that is why these doctors willnot help you. They realize they can't get paid, so they say, why shoudl I bother. But, you still need to keep trying. You can't give up. I have no other advice but that. You will be in my prayers. All the best Bethie.
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All I can offer is my sympathy, I do not know of any good doctors in your area, I know the feeling of looking for a doc. I spent two and a half years bouncing around to get a diagnosis. Now since I'm at college, I have to start over with a new doc. Keep trying, something will fall into place, you will have a break through. I'l be praying for you too.
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Hi Beth... hang in there! I can't believe that doctor didn't even try. Are there any others you can go see? You'll feel so much better just finding a good doctor, so keep looking. That really sucks about your medical insurance too. Maybe you should just move to Canada! In the meantime go do something nice for yourself. Go buy yourself flowers or some new bubble bath, etc, something to pamper yourself. You deserve it!
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Tommy
#209953 - 08/30/05 07:55 PM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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Aren't doctors suppose to help suffering people? Isn't that their job?
I can't even get through the front door. Do you know how scary it feels to be told that you are so hopeless you need to go to Mayo?
Is it even worth it to try another local GI? The doctor I saw today told me I shouldn't be community shopping for a doctor. He told me I didn't even bother to leave the same building to get another opinion. I would never see this man again...but he certainly did a good job at making me feel like a total lost cause.
Thank you for your prayers,,,but God and I aren't exactly on good terms these days. Why does he allow one of his children to continue to suffer, and when they do reach out for help, the door is slammed in their face.
I know some of you may be starting to think it is me that is the problem and not these three doctors ...or can I really run into 3 doctors who are jerks?
and thank you for calling me Bethie...I know the people who call me that truly care about me. My Grandma has always called me her little Bethie.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Post deleted by Jeano
Edited by Shelby Jean (08/30/05 07:59 PM)
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I cannot afford to go to Mayo. I just need a doctor here who will give me the time of day, for gosh sakes!
I was dumbfounded that he made this decision after 3 minuts of talking with me. At least he didn't charge me for this 2 second consultation.
There has to be something they can tell me...some diet advice, some med to try ...like Miralax again or something for the pain ...something...But with an appointment that lasted a whole 5 minutes...didn't leave much time for anything except him telling me to stop community shopping for a doctor.
I can ony hang for so long...then the arms give out.
Thanks for your support Jackie.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Don't be sorry, Beth! I'm sorry that you're still suffering and not getting any support from your doctors. What is your PCP like? While you continue to search for a good GI, would your PCP be able to help you manage your illnesses?
If you can't get counseling atm, is it possible for you to join a support group? You might not find one for your specific problem, but you should look into groups for people suffering from chronic illnesses or chronic pain. Check with your local hospital or university.
Please don't give up! We're all here to support you. I want you to keep updating on how you're doing. Also please know it's not you--it IS possible to come across three jerky doctors in a row.
*hugs*
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although BarbaraS told me that she believes they have helped her more than any GI doc ever has. She doen't feel the GI docs spend the time with you...but my problems are all a mix of GI problems...so wouldn't a GI be the best person to manage all the different varialbes going on? They won't even tell me if I have IBS...neither wants to make any diagnosis...just leave me on my own. The two docs I saw are jerks because of not treating me. The third is the "specialist" who refused to even see my chart!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for telling me you will not give up on me. I know I am draining you all, but if a doctor would be willing to help me, I wouldn't have to unload on your poor people all the time. I want to start having fun on the boards! Believe it or not, I used to have a wonderful sense of humor!
Hugs to you, my friend. I'm belching up stuff again. Oh another GI symptom.
My old GI receptionist saw me going into the other doc's office...so I'm sure they all know and I will have explaining to do if I go back to the old GI. Unfortunatley, with my Insurance, most of the in network doctors are in those two practices which cover about 10 doctors total. So, it eliminates a lot. I asked the doctor today if one of his associates would see me (a friend who has Chrones really likes his partner) but I'm sure after this Dr. talks to his collegue and gives his side of the story, the other doc would not go against his partners advice for a patient who is a total stranger.
I am just so tired of fighting. I know how Ruchie feels with all this fighting to get the need we need and so desperately want.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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I will think about your advice tomorrow when I have some brain left. I will try to call the insurance co to see if they have a nurse line. I need to try and go to bed now...
One of the places this doctor referred me to (and I use the word doctor with sarcasm because he is not a doctor to me) is located in Ohio. Some special clinic in Ohio..is it anywhere near you? Do I need to move to MN in order to go to Mayo and get some quality of life back? MN is so cold though...
How is your sister? I pray she not in too much pain......and that you are coping as best as possible.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Beth, this isn't your fault! It sounds almost to me like the doctor already knew your case or knew you were from the office next door. Try not to take the doctor's rude attitude too personally, okay? Good luck finding someone better!
I think finding a support group would be a good idea. Also, use up those 20 therapy sessions that you get. You need them, even if you will be a few hundred dollars in debt!
Big hugs! We're all here to listen!
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Christine
Those who can do; those who want it done better teach.
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Thank you!
#209968 - 08/30/05 08:25 PM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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It's confusing because this guy told me to stop community shopping for a doctor...so do I give up trying to find someone..or is this just one man's viewpoint? Is he right? Is looking for a new GI a waste of time? If one GI cannot help you, doesn't it make sense to try and find another? I never thought doctor shopping as a bad thing.
It is so hard to keep the faith that something will fall into place when I get shot down by the 2 doctors I tried to get into see other than the one who I am currently seeing without answers.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Post deleted by Jeano
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You know...
#209970 - 08/30/05 08:31 PM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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When I was sitting in his offic, I saw a magazine on the desk that had my current GI docs name on it...so obviously these guys are still "collegues" to some degree even though they broke off into separate practices. They used to be one big practice..and split into two. I originally thought this was a good thing because I thought it meant they had a falling out and that this doc would be good for me. My OB recommended him to me after telling me how my old GI had a big chip on his shoulder and should retire.
I just keep coming back to the fact that he told me I need Mayo...is he right? Is it worth is to go to another local GI? It scares me that Mayo would be my only resort. Or the Ohio clinic. Who wants to be that bad?
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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My God lift your sister from her pain, shelby.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Hi Beth,
I can't believe what you are going through, it is almost too awful for words.
First of all, let me reassure you that we will be here for your support. We will. Don't feel like you are a burden, or that we will get tired of you. So there. 
The GI doctor you saw sounds AWFUL. Everyone else has suggested some good ideas, and I just have a couple of others to maybe get you some attention and hopefully some help...
If I were you, I'd write letters...
First, I would write letters to other doctors and explain what's happened to you. Explain what you NEED from a doctor and try to appeal to SOMEONE'S empathy.. someone has to have some, right?
The other thing that I would personally do is write a letter to local newspapers. When my mom was getting a poor amount of work, her and my aunt went nuts on the phone. The phoned a local government office, they wrote letters to the hospital, to the doctor's office... Everyone they could, they brought into the loop.
I would make a real fuss, I'd really make sure that SOMEONE pays attention to you and fights in your corner.
You need help and you can't afford it, people respond to stuff like that.
And it can't hurt, right?
Otherwise, did you say you don't have a regular doctor? You really should get one... Even if you can see someone regularly at a free clinic or something, at least they can refer you...
I know it might be a shot in the dark, but it might help.
Good luck, Beth, we're all here for you!
**hugs**
--Steph
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~~I'm not crazy, I'm just a little unwell-I know right now you can't tell~~Matchbox 20
IBS-D,pain.
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Honestly...
#209987 - 08/30/05 09:25 PM
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atomic rose
Reged: 06/01/04
Posts: 7013
Loc: Maine (IBS-A stable since July '05!)
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It's NOT just you - I've been sick since age 12 and only finally JUST got a good doctor not even a year ago. You know how old I am, so you can do the math. I probably saw about a dozen a**hole doctors in the meantime.
But you know, I'm really thinking you might have better luck with a PCP. I know it makes sense to see a specialist when you have so many GI issues, but honestly, in my experience of working with them in a hospital, a lot of specialists are pompous jerks. I'm sorry, but it's true... there's really only a very rare few who aren't.
At least here in Maine, PCP's can order up all the same tests and labwork that a GI doc can. If that's the case where you are, I'd try that angle, rather than wasting more time and energy on yet another useless GI.
And I agree with whoever said to go for the counseling: I know you need more, but that little bit will be worth every penny. If you think you have the energy for another phone call or two, look into any community mental health facilities in your area. There's one here, in Bangor, that specializes in helping the homeless. Obviously, I'm not homeless, and I couldn't wait long enough for them to help, but they knew just where to send me so I could get help quickly.
This really just isn't right. Man, they'd better be glad they're not dealing with ME, because I'd have knocked that b**tard's kneecaps out.
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Beth,
You have been on my heart today, and I have been lifting you up to the Lord. He sees you, and His love for you is so great. I have been in the book of Job in my devotions, and it has reminded me of you.
You are in my prayers.
-Brandy 
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Mostly Stable - sometimes "C"
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{{{hugs}}}
#210001 - 08/31/05 05:25 AM
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Linz
Reged: 09/01/03
Posts: 8242
Loc: England
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Oh sweetie, how crap is that? Fyi, my GI didn't do alot for me and he's supposed to be one of the best in this country!  He did all the tests and did them well and he tried but it was down to Heather and myself to sort the IBS out. Docs are a bit crap IMHO.
Re. the counselling, I know of some mental health charities in this country that help people to get help. I'll contact them and see if they know of any similar organisations in the States.
We'll never give up on you sweetie! {{{hugs}}}
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I'm so sorry. People on this board have definately made me appreciate the NHS!! Although I have had a few arsy doctors (and a I few that I knew more than) on the whole I have been lucky.
You're case is SO not too complicated - there are millions of people with a variety of different things wrong with them who get treated properly and with respect.
I think my cat (who has a rare genetic disorder) gets better treatment than some of us on here and that can't be right.
Hmmm ... good luck.
Catherine
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I am so sorry honey. I've got a feeling your old doc somehow talks to this new doc you tried. You think?? Maybe?? Because if they are close by they probably do talk and maybe he set this up. I'm just wondering?? I'm naturally suspicious, mind you. I just hurt for you. The people here are kind and good and care about you and we will NOT grow weary of you!! Now - I think you need to talk to your insurance company, maybe, explain that 2 doctors have been IMCOMPETENT to help you and what is your next step?? They have to help you!! Also do you have a referring doctor, a primary care doctor? Get him to refer you somewhere else. If the doctors near you and in your "plan" are INCOMPETENT then the insurance has to offer out of network care, or whatever that means in your particular plan. But it has to be pre-approved, usually, which I think you will get being that you've tried adn they just turn you away.
You WILL get help. I don't knwo why it takes so long. I don't know why it took 4 doctors 3 years to figure out my ovary was causing me such severe pain/problems, I don't know why the Lord just didn't allow that to be fixed quickly and easily rather than draw out forever. I have no answers. I just know I trust Him and keep praying for you, that somehow He will work all this out for your best!! I love you, hang in there.
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Take care,
Michelle
...the greatest of these is LOVE. (I Cor 13)
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Beth
#210006 - 08/31/05 05:38 AM
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I haven't seen a GI in a long time but always thought that when I did, I would go in with a clean slate and have him/her start from scratch.
I think that when we go in with our records, the new doc is predisposed to thinking that the other doc knows what he is talking about. It seems to me that this new doctor knew what he was going to say to you before he walked in.
Don't give up Beth, put your faith in God and not these doctors. Doctors are on this earth for a reason and I totally believe in using them when needed. The ultimate healer is God and He will meet your needs...you just have to give it to Him.
Much love...
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Have a blessed day!...Rachel
stable and sooooooo thankful!
I have IBS but it doesn't have me!
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You should keep looking until you find a doctor that understands what you are dealing with. I spent the first two years of my battle insured by MIchild one of the worst insurance companies in the state of michigan. I found that country doctors seem to be more understanding, more down to earth, more caring. "Doctor Shopping" is only bad when you are doing it to get more of a restricted substance, ie what rush limbaugh did. You're not really shopping anyway, just looking for a doc that doesn't have his head up his A**.
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Re: Oh Beth
#210034 - 08/31/05 08:01 AM
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michele
Reged: 06/02/03
Posts: 6886
Loc: southeastern michigan
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This is just awful. I'm so sorry. You should not be treated this way!!! This is in no way your fault! It sounds like you had your records transferred from your old doc to this new one, right? I wonder if you maybe go to a different doc a little farther away and kinda start over, if maybe you might get more help. I would assume you had most of the tests done at the hospital and not the dr's office, so call the hospital and get those test results and just bring those with on the day of your appt. Don't give them time to call your old dr or anything like that, make them give you a fresh opinion with just your test results.
You should not have to suffer like this, Beth. You are a good person and deserve happiness. I hope you get some answers soon. Big hugs and lots of love.
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Taking it one day at a time.....
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I mean, if the GI specialist feels I'm too bad for him to see, what Primary Care Physician is going to know what the heck to do?
Do you go to an Internist, a Family Practioner, or a Primary Care Physician? And how do you find one that knows about GI stuff?
This is ludicrous to have to make all these phone calls to find someone who is both qualified and willing to help me. I'm tired...Too much.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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I agree with what Rachel said.
I have friends that are doctors and they are turned off when people come in and rattle off a list of ailments, disorders, sydromes, dysfunctions etc. (I know it sounds stupid bc they are supposed to help, but I think its definitly the case).
I think rachel has a point, that you might be better off starting from phase one and going in and saying you dont' know whats wrong with you. Perhaps you dont' even have ibs because none of the conventional cures to ibs are helping you in the slightest. your previous doctor could just really suck, and perhaps starting over from scratch might be the best idea.
Also, I hope you're not offended by this bc I know you are sensitive but I really think you should try really really hard to look into the therapy more. I think in the long run, it will be worth the debt. I realize that its a fable that the IBS is all in someones head, but I do think is some small way that mental health, stress, self esteem can all play a role in our symptoms in some caes. I know that you said that you had low self esteem and that you can't make decisions etc. I couldn't even imagine not being able to make decisions and the stress this must put on you subconsciously and consciously. Perhaps inside you're so twisted up by stress and anxiety that its making you even more constipated.
maybe seeking a counselor will help you to gain self esteem, develop the ability to make decisions and take some of the strain and stress off your poor body. I honestly think that counseling and developing the ability to be confident in yourself and your decisions may actually help more than fiber, dieting etc.
I hope you don't get offended, but as a counselor myself, I know how important self worth, and self esteem is in regards to our bodies.
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Michele
#210090 - 08/31/05 10:22 AM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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I didn't have my records transferred. My GI doc had no idea I was going to go to his previous associate. I just brought the records with me. He only scanned through them yesterday for the first time.
I have the test results already, but the reports always include the name of the doctor who prescribed the tests on them.
Since my current doc has only done the endoscopy, the antibody test and the gallbladder test, I had to drive up 1 1/2 hours north to go see my former internist to get the delayed gastric emptying test. That's why this doctor yesterday thinks I'm "doctor hopping".
Unfortunately, my new insurance is very bad and the only doctors in network are either in my current doc's practice, or in the practice across the room from him (a total of 8 of them). That only leaves 3 left within driving distance. And I really don't think I can afford to go out of network. The deductible shoots up from 350 to 750 and the percent they cover is greatly reduced....I don't see any options here.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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..who will order the tests and take me on as a patient! It would help if my crappy insurance gave me more options than the 2 practices in this building.
How did you find a good doc despite your lousy insurance?
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Thanks for your prayers. I'm having a hard time feeling His love.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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PLEASE go to an OA meeting. Anorexia destroys our bods and these people GET IT! There are specific meetings, called ABC, that are for anorexics, bulemics, and compulsive overeaters. These meetings are SAVING ME from hospitalization right now. As for the physical stuff, there s a post in the ER on dep something and it has been bumped twice for you...may help...
I love you *hugs* 
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Formerly known as Ruchie
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I don't know if they talked or not. I doubt it...but maybe just seeing my current doc's name on the chart was enough for him to play the "boys club" card. I honestly don't know.
I doubt the insurance co will allow me to go to another doctor of out network at the same fee and deductible even though all the in network docs seem to be in this building! The insurance company will most likely tell me to go to anyone I want, but that I will have to pay the higher out of pocket cost. I can't afford to pay all that extra money to see an out of network doc...I don't think. Why does money have so much to do with who gets help and who has to keep hurting? Not just me, but all the people with no money and no insurance.
I don't have a referring doctor. I'm currently trying to find a primary care doc, a Counselor, and a GI...for me, phone calls and decisions and interviewing docs is very stressful and draining. It took me 3 years to get he courage to see this doctor!
I wish, I wish, I wish I had the faith that you do instead of questioning the Lords motives here. And I wish I had the same faith that I will get help. It's hard enough figuring out what's going on with my body...but who would have thought that finding the doctor to start the process would be such a process.
My natural instints are to roll over and give up and just suffer instead of fighting for help and dealing with all this. But suffering is a fate worse than death.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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He didn't even allow me to tell my story. Just said he scanned my chart and he knew he would not be able to help me.
I agree that when they see a chart, they give the doctor the benefit of the doubt and if my old GI didn't run the necessary tests, then this new doc thought he had a good reason not to.
Problem with not bringing in records is that I would probably would have to do some of them over again? Not that I had that many...but the ones I did have were bad enough and I don't know if insurance would pay to have a second endoscopy and I probably don't need one. I just think the doctor should have a full picture of what's going on...but at the same time, I like the thought of a cleanc chart with no preconceived notions, ideas, thoughts....
Rachel, who diagnosed your IBS, a GI or regular doc? I guess once you are diagnosed with IBS you really don't need a GI
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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You are 100% right in everything you said. I know the stress, anxiety, low self esteem, indecisiveness, OCD, etc, etc, are twisting up my gut and making the pain worse than if I didn't have this personality! No way did you offend me, Ashley. Thank you for being so honest.
I know now that words spoken to me are out of concern and the desire to help me. It touches me that people take the time to really tell me what they think will help me and not just tell me everything is going to be okay. I appreciate all of you who have given me some things to think about.
I am so wanting to get into therapy! I just want more than my insurance company is willing to give me! I want to go every week, not once every month and a half!
And after reading your post, I am thinking maybe you and Rachel have a point. Especially what you said about your doctor friends.
My old doc keep changes his mind about the IBS diagnosis. One day he says I have it (in addition to other GI stuff) and other days he says I don't.
Thanks again, Ashley. I think you are probably more right about the stress making me twisted up with constipation that I admit. I am so focused on diet and SFS and trying to figure out my triggers, and dealing with stupid doctors and that's more stress...that I forget that I need to breath.
These past few days the C has been horrid. Stress? I think so.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Oh Linz
#210115 - 08/31/05 11:06 AM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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you make me so warm inside. Thank you for looking into the mental health charities. You are so sweet.
Yeah, docs are crap!
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Thank you
#210116 - 08/31/05 11:07 AM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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yeah, some animals get better treatment...especially when the owner has money!
Thanks for you thoughts.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Have a blessed day!...Rachel
stable and sooooooo thankful!
I have IBS but it doesn't have me!
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Oh Beth, I'm so sorry you're going through all of this (sorry too I was late to respond to your post). That's just terrible the way you were treated...and please don't worry about unloading here, you NEED an outlet and I think I speak for everyone when I say that we are happy to be that outlet for you.
Unfortunately I don't really have any suggestions because I don't live in the US and I don't know how your system works, but I hate to think there isn't an alternative for you...that's just terrible.
Maybe some more Canadians can jump in here, but if you were to come to Canada and go to an Emergency Room, I'm pretty sure they have to treat you. Now, I don't know how good treatment you would receive, but you might luck out and get something good, and you wouldn't have to pay. But that could potentially be as much travelling as going to Mayo so I'm not sure how much that helps.
I'm so sorry Beth, really wish I could be of more help. If you want to email me you can anytime vicam7@hotmail.com ... for this or anxiety issues or whatever 
Hang in there,
Kelly
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You have made some good suggestions Steph. Just don't know if I have it in me to do all this. Geez, why do the sick and tired have to fight for help...at the time they feel too ill to fight for themselves?
I don't know who to write to that would even care. There seems to be so many others in the same boat over here in the states where Health care is considered a privelege.
I do think if I had a primary care doctor to help me fight, I might get better results.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Thanks for not giving up on me. I know you all must be so tired of all the drama. I swear I'm not making this stuff up! These two docs really were jerks! It wasn't me, gotta believe me!
I just pray that a local doctor can help me. It really scares me to think that I am so bad that I need a univeristy or a Mayo clinic to get better. I can't afford that, so does that mean I will always be sick...that no one can help me because I am too complicated a case? Talk about embarrassing. I'm in trouble if this is the case, because financially and geographically, it is a huge burden and toll. But what if he is right? (rhetorical...I don't want to take up more board space). 
And again, thank you for being my unconditional support crew. You guys are the best people in the world! I love you all and hope you will all continue support me through this never ending fight for some answers and relief from my pain.
Big HUGS to you all.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Thanks Kelly
#210140 - 08/31/05 11:46 AM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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I'm actually thinking about moving some place that has a good doctor. Too bad MN is so cold. If Mayo was someplace warm, I think I'd totally move there.
About the anxiety, how much klonopin are you on? I don't think I'm on enough. I have noticed my anxiety has gone up since stopping the lexapro.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Do you have a 1-800# for your insurance that you can call?? They may be able to put you in touch w/a nurse or someone that can help recommend a PCP or GI doc over the phone. (My insurance offers a 24hr nurse on call service) That may help ease your anxieties a bit in getting some true help. Explain to them everything that you have told us and hopefully they will help. Take some of the burden off of yourself and use the insurance to your fullest advantage. Hey, you pay them, so you are the client. They should be willing to help you out. Also, let them know how you were treated @ your recent appt. and they should make note of that. Who knows...you may NOT be the first one. Hope this is somewhat helpful. Just be as pro-active as you can!
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What if the Hokey Pokey is what it's all about???
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I take 0.5mg of Klonopin in the afternoon and then 1mg at bedtime...I'm not 100% sure it's enough, I still have a lot of anxiety and problems but I find it very sedating and can't really function on much more. Probably means I should be on a different benzo...but don't see my doc for a little while so I will stick with the Klonopin for now.
Have you ever tried Librax for your stomach? I was thinking about it for you...it's a combination of an anti-spasmodic/anti-cholenergenic type drug with Librium (another benzo). Maybe that would help both your problems at a high enough dosage? Just a thought
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I'll call and see if they have a nurse line at my insurance co. BarbaraS suggested the same thing...so maybe my insurance has something like this. I sure hope so. I do think I would feel better to have an advocate or some person helping me find someone.
I also am thinking about voicing a complaint with them about this last GI. Thanks for the idea.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Beth
#210166 - 08/31/05 12:24 PM
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Sand
Reged: 12/13/04
Posts: 4490
Loc: West Orange, NJ (IBS-D)
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Beth, I'm just kind of lumping all my thoughts here instead of trying to attach each one to the right part of the thread.
I'm sorry you're having such a hard time. There's nothing as discouraging as gathering up all your energy to find and see a new doctor and then getting brushed off.
As far as psychotherapy, try calling the United Way. That's how I found the greatest therapist in the world (an MSW) many years ago. The United Way here funded a service center that offered psychotherapy on a sliding fee scale. Also, if you find a good therapist, she may be able to suggest support groups that would help. And from my own personal experience, if you're working full time and dealing with really big emotional issues, once every two weeks if probably going to be about the right frequency. It sounds odd, but there's just not enough time in a single week to process what went on during a therapy session.
As far as a PCP rather than a GI guy, I think it's a great idea. I love my Family Practice physician. She's the one who tested me for parasites and infection and she's the one who tried me on Elavil. You can use this page to search for Family Practice doctors in your area. I would hope that at least some of them would be in your medical plan.
I have a preference for female physicians and therapists, but that might just be me. 
And one last thing: there's a branch of the Mayo Clinic in Arizona and the very first doctor Heather lists in the good docs thread is there - or was last summer. That would certainly be warmer than Chicago.
HTH.
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[Research tells us fourteen out of any ten individuals likes chocolate. - Sandra Boynton]
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Aww Beth! I know this is a long thread by now, so I haven't had a chance to read any updates or responses... that makes me so sad! I have had my fair share of bad docs, but none that bad, and my case isn't nearly as bad as yours. I am sure you are tired of hearing "hang in there, things will get better" especially cause right now you probably can't see that happening. But, I have faith and hope that they will for you, and I will be sending lots of good thoughts and energy your way.
THis is another example of how healthcare, insurance, and even the doctors themselves are so screwed up. ONE day we will have a better health care system, one that takes care of people like us, not just the 'easy' or 'profitable' patients.
Lots of hugs and good luck Beth!
~S
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-Sheri
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Maybe one day they will straighten out the health care fiasco. I'm not easy or profitable...so guess that makes me a double loser in the doc's view point.
The poor and the complicated cases are the ones who need help the most!
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Thanks Sand
#210185 - 08/31/05 12:54 PM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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I'll have to check the list of docs. Problem is finding one nearby and covered by lousy insurance.
Are you saying you think therapy only once every two weeks would probably be better when working FT? I've never been working FT and in therapy at the same time.
The thing that really confuses me is that the doctor is telling me I need intensive team approach...so I'm not sure if a PCP would be able to "handle" me. Why can't I just be a simple IBS case that responds to Acacia and diet? No, I have to have gluten antibodies, gallbladder malfunctioning, delayed emptying, and who knows if I have slow transit C or ideopathic C or plain old IBS C. That's what I need the darn tests for...stupid doctors.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Beth
#210209 - 08/31/05 02:23 PM
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Portageegal
Reged: 06/28/05
Posts: 940
Loc: Massachusetts
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I feel so bad after reading your post. Nobody should have to put up with all the crap from doctors.
I spent a good part of the day searching the web looking for help in Illinois, but wasn't successful. If you want to e-mail me and talk my e-mail is in my profile. Let me know what area you live in and maybe I can try again tomorrow.
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Carol
nós somos o que nós somos e o descanso é merda
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Just wanted to let you know that I'm sorry you have to go through this Beth. I had sort of the same thing happen to me today when I went to the doctors and thought of you. I don't have any health coverage and have to use my school's doctors.
Some of my friends who are nurses told me that my symptoms sounded like I have an ulcer and that they prescribe antibiotics and something to relieve the acid burning sensation (h2 blocker, proton pump inhibitor, etc.). When I went to see one of the doctors at my school who has all my medical records from my last insurance, she goes "Oh, well, they've already done all the tests so just take Prilosec over the counter". I tried telling her they did those tests before my stomach acid problem and that I've tried the Prilosec, but she was hell bent on telling me to try the Prilosec and told me to try it again.
Hopefully the medical profession will someday start to get their act together.
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- Jennifer
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WOW....I can't believe they are all being so rude and turning you away like that. I'm so sorry you are dealing with this. Have you checked out this site yet? https://secure.gastro.org/GILocator/locator.asp you can put in your State and it will list all the GI Docs in your area, maybe there is one that you have not seen yet that will be willing to help you? Best of luck sweetie.... I'll keep you in my thoughts and keep us posted....we are here for ya...we are not going anywhere.
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www.facebook.com/shell.marr
www.myspace.com/shellmarr
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Beth
#210263 - 08/31/05 05:56 PM
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jen1013
Reged: 05/06/05
Posts: 1322
Loc: the wabe
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So sorry you're feeling like this again! No one here is sick of you. We just all wish you could get the relief you deserve.
Haven't read through all the responses, but everyone has some great ideas. I do have to say that this new guy is a JERK! Just as much as the other one! And I refuse to believe that your old GI DIDN'T say anything about you to him. I used to work in hospitals and for most doctors, patient confidentiality was a joke. Doctors would talk in loud voices not caring who would overhear, or talk to each other about patients. I worked in IT and it was like I was invisible to them. One time I was working on an internist's computer (who spent a lot of time on a website with "lonely Russian women") and saw the nurse usher the patient into the exam room across the hall. The internist sat there and read the paper (since I was working on the PC) until he finally got up and ambled into the exam room like he'd been busily studying the patient's chart. Ugh! For every good doctor, there's about 137 bad ones!
You can't give up, you have to keep trying doctors until you find someone who can help you. Is there anyone not in the practice that's covered by your insurance? What about going to a doctor in another city?
Going to a university hospital or some place like the Mayo Clinic doesn't necessarily mean your condition is "that awful" -- it just means your doctors have been "that awful". A friend of mine ended up going to the Mayo Clinic after years of problems. They found her problem and fixed it. I hated the GI I was initially referred to, so I went back to my GP and was referred to the University of Iowa's Health Clinic. They are supposed to be really good and one of the GIs is supposedly an expert on Crohn's. It took me months to get in. I really wasn't crazy about the GI I ended up seeing. I tried to make myself feel good about it for a couple weeks by telling myself that at least he listened to me, but even then, the listening was punctuated with questions that made me feel like I was making it all up. So even if you DO end up going to a university hospital or whatever, you may end up with another cruddy doc -- so don't feel too bad if it's just not feasible to go somewhere like that.
Like others said, I think it is imperative that you get a good PCP. A PCP who cares about you is worth twenty rotten GIs. A PCP can also order a lot of the same tests, too. The best doctors I've ever had are women who work in "family-friendly" clinics. I actually see a PA and love her.
I also second (third/fourth/fifth/whatever) the thoughts of getting therapy. Even if it's not as much as you want.
Wish I could do more to help! I did mail you the hypno CDs today, so hopefully you'll get them Friday. Take care!
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jen
"It's one of the most serious things that can possibly happen to one in a battle -- to get one's head cut off." -- LC
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If you start over with a new primary care doctor, don't even have your records transferred over (I never EVER transfer my records when I start to see a new doc), you'll have a fresh pair of eyes looking at your problems. If he or she feels you need a specialist, they'll go from there, but honestly, you'd be surprised how much a good doctor can know.
My PCP is actually a kidney specialist. LOL When he moved to Maine, he settled in a poor part of the state and took up family practice, because he wanted to help people. He's remarkably knowledgeable about a lot of things - heck, he's told me things about BC that my gyno didn't even tell me! But most importantly, he knows what tests to order, and he knows when to send someone to a specialist. What I'm getting at here is that a PCP can be a lot more helpful than you'd think.
I don't think there's any good way of finding one who's especially knowledgeable about GI problems, but I look at it this way: GI problems are SO common these days that the chances of finding a doctor who knows enough to work with you are very good.
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Someone else will because they're not a lazy jerk and it's their job to treat you! Same thing happened to my mom, she had a lousy specialist, asked to be referred to a different one and it made a huge difference. Not sure how many there are in your area, but keep trying. For all you know maybe he did that because he knew you saw the other doctor? That's still not right, you should write a letter of complaint to the board of physicians. What would happen if you went to the emergency room?
I read something in last month's issue of Self magazine that made me think of you - it said you are entitled to a copy of your health records. It allows you to ensure everything is correct and maybe they made a mistake a future doctor could pick up. Not sure if you get charged for medical tests, but you could use those results instead of being tested a second time.
Stay strong! We'll be thinking about you!
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Beth,
#210320 - 08/31/05 10:47 PM
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_Willow
Reged: 04/06/05
Posts: 2090
Loc: Canada.
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I cannot believe that GI ddoctor was so arrogant to you. That makes me SICK!
After you finally got the courage to do all this, too, babes!
I definintely think Stephie has a great idea in letting everyone know what unprofessional SERVICE you received from a member of the SERVICE community! Whatever happened to the hippocratic Oath? That's a breach, IMHO!
Don't stop fighting even if it takes all you have. You will win, and God wants you to. remember that.
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Keep on keepin' on...
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He** yeah! He deserves to be "told on." Sometimes being a tattle tale is not so bad when it is for the good of most people! Let us know how the phone call goes!
Christianne
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What if the Hokey Pokey is what it's all about???
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Beth, I'm so sorry for what you've been going through. It saddens me that you can't get the help you need. I wish I had some words of wisdom, but all I can offer you now is my prayers and thoughts. You are never a burden. We are always here for you.
My very best wishes,
Kristine
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Beth
#210352 - 09/01/05 07:11 AM
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BL
Reged: 06/01/03
Posts: 3522
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I'm sorry you had to go through this. It sounds like the doctor had already looked at your files and made up his mind before he even saw you. (Or he had talked to the other doctor).
Please don't give up! And please don't take this personally. Unfortunately, a lot of doctors today don't have any compassion for their patients. They're only in this business for the profit. If a patient won't bring in money for them, they're not interested in them!
I had the same experience when I was having back problems. I saw 2 doctors that were highly recommended. After waiting months for an appointment and hours in the waiting room, they both took one look at me, and said, "I'm sorry there's nothing I can do to help you!" One of them----the most pompous jerk I've ever met---told me I just needed to exercise!
I was in severe pain. I couldn't even sleep at night lying down. I had to sleep sitting up. A nurse friend persuaded me to go see another doctor, and guess what? He took one look at my X-rays (that the other doctor had taken. One didn't even bother to take any X-rays!) and said, "OH MY GOSH! This is not a normal X-ray!" He was appalled that the other 2 doctors had dismissed my pain and treated me with such disrespect. He sent me for an MRI, and I do have a serious problem with my back (a problem with 2 discs).
I am without back pain today because of the compassion and kind heart of this sweet doctor who---unlike the other 2 jerks---cares about his patients immensely. (He even calls me at home at the end of the day to discuss tests results with me, and goes over every option available to me.) I worship the ground he walks on.
I'm telling you this so that you will not give up! There is a doctor out there that cares ----and will help you. As for the two doctors you saw, I'd make sure I registered a complaint about them.
I think the recommendation that you call your insurance company (or nurse hotline) for a referral is a good idea. Keep searching, and you will find a good doctor. I will pray that you find one as wonderful as mine!
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and he is listed in Chicago's top doctors.
The problem is, my insurance co only has a handful of doctors to choice from...and they are either in this docs practice or my old GI's practice. I can't go to anyone in this past doctors practice because he has talked to them and they are sticking together. I just got the call from the other doctors nurse this morning.
I told her I was going to register a complaint against both doctors and tell my insurance company about the "groups" decision not to see me.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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I'm in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. You are so sweet to want to help.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Thanks Shell
#210400 - 09/01/05 10:28 AM
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Augie
Reged: 10/27/04
Posts: 5807
Loc: Illinois
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...but there were no docs in my area in my insurance plan. This just makes me sick.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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I can't believe this is how doctors act! This is disgusting behavior. These guys are suppose to be healers, am I wrong???
It seems to be the general concensus that this new guy won't take me because maybe he saw my Dr's name on my reports and that was that. It was a bad sign when I was sitting in the waiting room and the magazine on the table had my old doctors name and address on it!  Bad omen.
And now this guy has "blackballed" me from being able to see anyone else in his practice.
Jen, I really can't afford to go to Mayo...I can't afford the hotel and food costs, the out of network doctors and test, flying back and forth and leaving work. It just is not possible.
And I agree, university docs are not the best...IMHO, they are the worst with bed side manner because they are more academicly inclined. They more dismissive.
The thing I don't understand is why this doctor refuses to see me when I have not had hardly any tests done to show what is wrong...I have not had a defogram, barium enema, Sitz marker test, motility tests, Anorectal tests to see if it is a Pelvic Floor disfunction, an upper GI test and my last colonoscopy was 7 years ago...and my symptoms have changed since then.
I want to know if I have Slow Transit Constipation, IBS, or Ideopathic Constipation. And I can't believe they won't even try me on any med like Miralax...there is just so much he could have done. Instead, he gives me the boot.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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..to listen and treat us as individuals? To spend more than 2 minutes with you to figure out if there is something they can do to help you?
So, are you trying Prilosec again? This is negligent to tell you to take something when your symptoms are different than before.
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~ Beth
Constipation, pain prodominent,cramps, spasms and bloat!
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Bethie!
#210412 - 09/01/05 10:47 AM
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Sorry hon, my stupid work computer was down for 3 days. Grrrr...
Back to your post, what the H@ll is wrong witht he doctors there??? Do they know what good bedside manner is? OMG! I'm furious for you. How dare they dismiss you like that! Grrrr.
I won't ever shut the door on you. I'm so sorry and here's a (((((((HUGE HUG FOR BETHIE))))))))!!!!
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Re: Thanks Sand
#210643 - 09/02/05 08:49 AM
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Sand
Reged: 12/13/04
Posts: 4490
Loc: West Orange, NJ (IBS-D)
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Quote:
Are you saying you think therapy only once every two weeks would probably be better when working FT? I've never been working FT and in therapy at the same time. Yup, that's what I'm saying. Therapy takes a lot of emotional time and energy.
The thing that really confuses me is that the doctor is telling me I need intensive team approach...so I'm not sure if a PCP would be able to "handle" me. If not, she should be able to help you get the help you need. That's why I say a Family Practice doctor as a PCP, rather than an internist or ob/gyn or any other specialty. A FP doctor is designed to function as a gatekeeper and referral point.
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[Research tells us fourteen out of any ten individuals likes chocolate. - Sandra Boynton]
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