Medical How Do You Handle Doctor's Appointments

[BlackbirdSinging]

I have to get a new primary care doctor. It's making me really anxious. It happens every time I have to get a new primary care doctor. I'm not quite as bad about going to see specialists for my back. But, when it comes to a primary care doctor it's another story.

The last time I had to see a new primary care doctor my pulse which is always high due to chronic pain was even higher from anxiety. I'm talking over 100. And I literally got tears in my eyes explaining my anxiety and how I don't like to be touched.

I'm going to have to see my new primary care doctor soon. I'm already getting anxious about it. How do you handle the anxiety about seeing doctors getting examined and being touched?

 

[Muted]

I disassociate or try to talk myself through it and block the feelings. It's gotten better over time. Would it be helpful to have someone come with you to your appointment?

 

[Eagle3]

I've learned its much easier to tell them upfront about my Dx's and how these appointments are difficult for me. My last visit to a PCP, i just flat-out told her (a new doc to me) that I was an Aspie with PTSD, so go slowly. She did, it was one of the first times a doctor has ever asked permission before touching me, she explained things as she went, it was wonderfully empowering and reassuring to me! If I'm going to an appointment that I KNOW will be a trigger, I take lots of meds with me, someone else drives and waits for me, and half the time certain exams never get done anyhow. Good luck, communication is a big part of keeping these visits less stressful.

 

[BlackbirdSinging]

I'm not sure I'd feel better with someone in the room with me @Gia1019. I think it would make me feel even more vulnerable almost like I was on display.

I agree @Eagle3 that talking about it upfront is the best way. I'm glad you had a good experience with your doctor. My last doctor was good about it too. She was understanding and never tried to push me. I think it's a few things for me. Knowing I'm going to have to explain all of this to another doctor and hope I don't feel like I'm getting judged. And actually trusting that I won't be backed into a corner.

I know I have to go. I try not to think about it too much because, if I do the anxiety starts again. It's just not an easy situation. I end up feeling like I'm at the mercy of the doctors. I hate the vulnerable feeling. And it seems like my anxiety about being touched has gotten worse since I started processing traumas. It's not everyone and it's not all the time.

 

[Crow]

I name stuff I see and square breathe. If I'm having flashbacks, the only touching is pulse and BP.

 

[hodge]

I've got to see my doc next Thursday because of my worsening back pain. I feel for you. I hope and pray you get a good new GP.

 

[solost]

Thank u for your honesty I realise now how much shame I have over my complex ptsd.I cry a lot about it. Am I'll and need to see many drs. I never know if they will be kind or in the wrong profession.Its very lonely. Glad u found this site. Good luck

 

[Friday]

I don't just "go" to a new PCP. I interview them. Just like shopping for a new therapist, they're not MY doctor, until I've found one I can work with.