Too much stress

[Largsvegas]

Hi I was diagnosed 18 months ago,and on w and w but lately have developed very high levels of stress.I have read an article that cll can invade the central nervous system . Am I worrying too much about this. As the stress could be just caused by being diagnosed with this condition

[Tommays56]

Hi Lar

Well I have really well controlled PTSD for 25 some odd years and devolving quite good coping skills

My current 2017 CLL diagnoses has really challenged everything I have learned and while it’s getting better I have some significant challenges to get back to life before CLL

It has been difficult because apparently my CLL started in 2014 and evolved really slowly until April 2017 and then it went through a very rapid rise and there were a few months were it was not clear if it would stop

While no one knows why by August it stabilized and has not changed in months I find this to the stressful part as it would seem it can start and stop at will

[Largsvegas in reply to Tommays56]

Thanks for replying Tom may I wish you all the best and hope your results stay steady

[Newdawn Administrator]

Hi Largsvegas and I’m sorry to hear you’re experiencing high levels of stress. It’s much more common than is often acknowledged amongst CLL’ers and research bears this out.

I’m not sure what article you’ve been reading but I have read a bit of research relating to CLL infiltration into the central nervous system and there is quite a distinction between a psychological stress response and the very real neurological deficients this infiltration causes. Physical issues including headache, confusion, intellectual impairment, affected gait etc.

Stress can come from internal and external forces and make us physically ill but it’s very different to central nervous system ‘invasion’.

I really hope you can find ways of dealing with this stress be it talking therapies, medication, exercise, additional support or a combination of all those things.

This is a tough condition to live with due to its sheer unpredictability and there’s absolutely no shame in needing to address it with a therapist. Mention this to your doctor if you continue to feel concerned.

I apologise if my response is a bit of a ramble but it’s very late here and my brain is clearly in need of sleep. However I wanted to respond to you as these fears can take hold and cause an irritational response to what is an entirely natural reaction. Many of us will understand exactly how you feel. Me included.

Best wishes,

Newdawn

[Largsvegas in reply to Newdawn]

Thanks newdawn maybe Im overreacting as usual

[Newdawn Administrator in reply to Largsvegas]

Not over-reacting Larsvegas, just being human.

Best wishes,

Newdawn

[Hidden]

Thanks for the reminder. For almost the entire first year after my diagnosis I had panic attacks. I should say I was not a worrier. What helped me was the one day, one hour, one step at a time and sharing with a few close friends. Then I discovered this forum and the wonderful folks that share their experiences which helped my learn and accept where I was at. Once I started to accept my situation and understand this is a chronic disease that with some work and a Cll specialist I seem to be able to deal with what comes my way. Stick around, learn as much as you can and things will get manageable. I wish you all the best-bill

[Largsvegas in reply to Hidden]

Thanks kinziodian

[pilantd]

I think it's wise to get therapy. When I received my official diagnosis in November 2014 I entered into a panic mode because this disease was behaving so aggressive towards me. As a result, I had to start my FCR treatment in February 2015. I had a couple of supporters who decided they would be with me and support me. They introduced me to the Serenity Prayer. After my FCR treatment I experienced a period of remission. However, since April 2nd I've been taking Ibrutinib, which hasn't been working out. As a result, I've sought out counseling and hoping to once again become peaceful with God's Will.

[Largsvegas]

Thanks for your advice pilantd I wish you well

[phenry60]

Stress is a core to the illness. Many articles starting with hematologytimes.com/p_artic... . Best wishes on your search for health.

.

[Largsvegas in reply to phenry60]

Thanks phenry

[migirlusa]

Hi Largsvegas

I was diagnosed a year ago. I have blood test every two months and each one looks a little worse. I try not to dwell on it but I can honestly say for the first time in my life I am having anxiety . I just try to keep busy and stay positive. Hang in there. This group of lovely people will help.

[Largsvegas]

Thanks migirl