Answering Questions: Odd Sensation in My Legs, No Significant Pain

Hi @klro0001, I think being anxious and scared are pretty normal when it comes to knowing something is wrong with you and you don't know what it is. Also, waiting for a diagnosis adds to the anxiety. I can share that I have felt the same way and I have a wife like your husband that is concerned and wants to help and support me. I consider it a blessing to be able to have someone who will listen and you can share your concerns with them. It doesn't make it easy though.

One of the things that I think might be helpful is to discuss your concerns with your doctor to see what they might think the issue is and what they are trying to confirm with their tests. Have you had a chance to discuss your concerns with your doctor?

Here's a video of your upcoming tests that may help answer some of your questions and concerns.

Hi Klro0001, I can totally relate, having gone through what you are now experiencing. I think that sharing what you are going through with your husband will at least make you feel that you are not totally alone with this new scary health issue. Even if someone is not emotionally supportive, just talking to someone even if you don't know what is happening will help your anxiety levels. Try to stay positive until you have some answers, whatever you are experiencing could just be temporary. Wishing you the best. Helen

I think I’m having some weird reaction to a nerve block that I received for a bunion surgery. I spoke with my surgeon, PCP, and neurologist. Just waiting for the tests at this point.

Thank you. He’s very supportive. I think I’m just trying to put on a brave face. I don’t want to scare or worry him. But, you’re right. I should express my thought and feelings. Thanks for the advice.

@kiro0001, Good morning. You have great helpers here in @johnbishop and @helennicola. There is not much for me to add except that I have had those tests several times in my life. They are getting easier to handle these days. Here's my question. Will your husband be going with you and will he be in the room with you? My life partner went with me to the neurologist's appointment. That was so perfect. Why? I didn't have to tell him. The technicians and neurologist included him in the entire process. What that does is make the tests and their results a shared experience. We now attend every medical appointment or treatment together. He calls us "health buddies".

If you are a student of mindfulness, then my next suggestion will be an easy one for you. Stay in the present. The past is over and the future has not happened. Worrying, predicting outcomes and waiting for answers is in the future. See if you can limit the time you spend with the future since it is unknown at this time. The what-if game......is not an emotionally healthy place to stay for any length of time.

And finally, sharing with your husband will have a chance at the best outcome when we answer the following mindfulness questions.....is what you want to share with your husband true? Is it nice? Is it necessary?

If I am being honest with myself, I will acknowledge that I went through most of my health issues alone because I thought my ex-husband wouldn't want me anymore. There are a lot of cultural concepts that make women feel unworthy unless they are totally healthy and doing everything they are expected to do. May you be safe and protected today. Check-in after the October 17th tests. All three of us, John, Helen and I will be here for you.

Thank you so much, Chris! I am truly moved by your response. I think your suggestion to take him with me is a good one. I will definitely suggest that. My husband is a wonderful man and he chooses to remain optimistic, which is normally my approach as well. I’m struggling this time, but I will take your advice and take a more mindful approach. I may even reach out to a therapist to help me with this. Thanks again for your kind words and for your support.

@klro0001

My wife goes to almost every medical appointment, so that between the two of us we remember what doctors said. We always go together for any procedure - it's good to have the mutual support. In sickness and in health...

We spend almost all of our time together, whether it's church or shopping or doctor appointments, or just being at home. That's how we've lived for 47 years. Having a fully committed partner makes life so much better.

Jim

Thank you so much.

@kiro0001, Good morning. Did you have tests scheduled for October 17? I am just wondering if you are willing to share the results with me. If you are still waiting, then I can only guess at the anxiety of not knowing. I have been there and know how our minds can play with uncertainty. Thinking of you and wishing for you a day of peace and ease. Chris

Hi, Chris. Thanks so much for following up with me. I did have my tests. The EMG was normal but the NCS showed sensory damage in left leg. However, I’ve experienced new symptoms (muscle twitching, water dripping sensations, sporadic shooting pain) in my other leg. When I explained this to the neurologist, he all but shrugged and gave me a follow up appointment for bloodwork that is scheduled for January. My husband and I were not impressed with this neurologist at all. Also, anxiety and depression has set in and I was not getting any sleep, which was making me even more anxious at work and at home. I reached out on this forum and took someone’s suggestion to discuss my psychological issues with my PCP. She prescribed Amitriptyline 25mg at night to help with sleep and depression. She also referred me to a different neurologist that I am scheduled to see December 4th. So the waiting game continues. At this point, I’m not experiencing consistent pain and I’m getting restful sleep so there’s my silver lining for now. Also, I’m in the process of finding a therapist and I’m attempting (and failing) meditation. I may try group meditation until I get the hang of it. Thanks again for reaching out and any advice is appreciated.