Good evening again @betty1954, I hope the evening has been pleasant for you. Your story of discovery is frustrating and not uncommon. There is nothing wrong with you. For how long have you been in constant pain? What have you read in your patient reports that might give a clue about your next step or even a possible diagnosis?

Sometimes this disconnect happens when the patient doesn't know how to describe what the body is feeling in the terminology that the clinician uses. My journey took between 2-3 years to correctly identify and diagnose SFN (small fiber neuropathy). There is a skin test that pretty much seals the deal. Here is the medical language. "Demonstration of a reduction in the Epidermal Nerve Fiber Density (ENFD) on punch skin biopsy is a highly sensitive and specific test for Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN)."
By the way, this test is minimally discomforting. It takes about 45 seconds. Then it is sent off to one of the few labs that analyze the results.

So for tonight....just breathe....3 deep breaths. Accept that you are beginning a journey and it is too soon to be dismayed and discouraged. Your "homework" includes John's video and any tips you might pick up by perusing the SFN discussion on Connect. Here is the link.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/small-fiber-neuropathy-1/?pg=4#comment-266111

I do want you to know that I noted your comment about your retiree status and financial resources. I think we are in the same boat.
May you be free of suffering and the causes of suffering. Chris

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