a conversation with my doctor...

I have a new doctor I've been seeing for only a few month.  Like most doctors, she's concerned about her patients overall health.  One of her big kicks is trying to get me to stop smoking.  Now I don't smoke that much, usually less than half a pack a day, unless I'm going through a particularly stressful period.  I've told her this.  I've also told her that if I were to stop smoking I would gain weight and right now this is something I just cannot do.

My doctor continues the discussion briefly at each visit.  My last visit she asked why I smoke, what do I get out of it.  My reply was, obviously you've never been a smoker.  She told me I was right, but that her husband is a heavy smoker and she's always trying to get him to quit.  I told her what I get out of it is stress reduction.  My doctor says she eats when she's stressed.  SEE!


 

Lola's Diner ©2008-2012

The weirdest thing about my families health...

It's no secret to my regular bloggers that both my children suffer from Mental Illness.

At times dealing with their level of illness can be:

devastating
incredibly frustrating
expensive
heartwarming
heartbreaking
grueling
stressful
humorous

It's humorous because you never know what they are going to say when they are not well.  Their confused thoughts bring the most humor.  You never know what nonsensical thing they will say.  This stuff comes out of nowhere and the topic could have nothing to do with anything you're talking about.

Because this illness can be so devastating and stressful, sometimes you have to find the humor in it just to get you through it.




 Lola's Diner ©2008-2012

My favorite thing about online health communities...

My favorite thing about online health communities is the ability to do research before a doctor appointment so I'm more knowledgeable about my health issue and can ask intelligent questions.  They are also helpful after the doctor appointment to find out further information.

As an example, 2 months ago I slipped in the shower and caught myself with my right hand, bending back the 3rd and 4th fingers.  The 3rd finger is the real problem, as it has not healed.  It remains very swollen and when my finger gets stuck in the bent position the next day I will notice purple bruising around the knuckle or below the knuckle.  I've had x-rays and 3 doctor visits before being referred to an Orthopaedic Doctor.  I was told I have something called "trigger finger".

My primary care doctor told me that I'd probably get a cortisone shot, unless the Orthopaedic Doctor feels there is damage that must be repaired by surgery.  A quick search of the internet let me know that the surgery would be required if the sheath covering the tendons is damaged. 

I think with the miniscule amount of time doctors spend with patients today it's imperative that patients do research before and after their appointments so they can fully understand their health issue and ask appropriate questions during their doctor visits.
 
 

Lola's Diner ©2008-2012