Medically unexplained symptoms

[wobblybee]

Many people have persistent physical complaints, such as dizziness or pain, that don't appear to be symptoms of a medical condition.They are sometimes known as "medically unexplained symptoms" when they last for more than a few weeks, but doctors can't find a problem with the body that may be the cause.This doesn't mean the symptoms are faked or "all in the head" – they're real and can affect your ability to function properly.Not understanding the cause can make them even more distressing and difficult to cope with.

nhs.uk/conditions/medically...

[doglover1973]

Thank goodness doctors no longer tell you it's ''all in the head'' . That's what they told me when I fell ill with CFS/ME over 20 years ago. It's very distressing.

[wobblybee Administrator in reply to doglover1973]

I really empathise, around the time of perimenopause (when I was emotional and confused) I started to experience the onset of a progressive, rare condition (Cerebellar Ataxia….symptoms can feel similar to being drunk). My GP once even told me she’d tested for everything..that was demoralising..and probably intended to stop me seeking appointments.

[doglover1973 in reply to wobblybee]

I don't think GPs know what to do if all tests are clear so they put the onus back on the patient. How did you find out about Cerebellar Ataxia? Did you eventually get help? I've had no sensible intervention over my CFS/ME.

[wobblybee Administrator in reply to doglover1973]

After years of having unexplained dizziness and worsening balance, I eventually started having falls. My GP couldn’t decide what to do about it, so he sent me to a Falls & Syncopy Clinic (he said this was generally for elderly people but 🤷‍♀️)

I had a Tilt Table Test, and was unable to stand unsupported afterwards. This led to an MRI..and a diagnosis of Cerebellar Atrophy.

Cerebellar Ataxia is similar to MS…

[doglover1973 in reply to wobblybee]

I'm glad you got to the root of the problem eventually but I suspect it's not an easy condition to manage - if it's like MS. I hope you have access to help & support .