Correct diagnosis at last

by Liz Lockhart

I am writing this for those who were kind enough to contact me after writing of my difficulties in getting a correct diagnosis of physical illness last year.

A great deal has happened to me since then, in and out of hospital in Wales suffering from the side effects of the antidepressants which my GPs insisted on me taking, losing three stone in weight from the constant upset stomach that I developed (again as a result of the medication).  Splitting up with my long-term partner mainly because he couldn't cope with me being so unwell was another great life-changing experience that the incorrect diagnosis of depression and anxiety caused.

The most positive thing that I achieved through this dreadful time was to move back to Dorset and be close to my family and friends again.  I registered with a recommended medical practice who have been incredible.  In the few months that I have been with them they have sent me for several tests and I have now been able to find that I have a condition called BPPV (Benign Paroxismal Positional Vertigo) which caused a loss of balance but is totally treatable.  I also have a glorious collection of gall stones and am waiting to have my gall bladder removed. 

These physical problems are curable and the relief that I have been taken seriously is overwhelming.  I knew I was physically ill but was told that it was all in my head!  I feel sad that had it been a mental health problem and had I remained with my old practice in Wales I would have been dismissed as a nuicance and sent away with tablets - this is not acceptable.  I feel very lucky to have been able to make a new life back in Dorset and to have the opportunity to fix my slightly broken body.

Thank you to all of you who emailed me having read my last blog, it is the wishes and kindness of others that pull us all through difficult times.