Help! I Have An Appointment With Doctor Who Made Me Cry!

[all4family]

Hi Everyone,

For those of you that don't remember I put up a post about a doctor who upset me pretty bad when I went to him. He talked down to me, and made me feel like a complete idiot. I asked him about mast cell activation, and he said he didn't think I had it, but would test me for it anyways. Well I found out from another doctor that I had a positive test for it. (what it is I'm not sure, but I think she said mastocytosis.) Well I just got an automated call saying I have an appointment this friday with the doctor who ordered the test. I talked with someone else who has seen this doctor, and she says not to go to him. I would really like to find out some answers, but just don't know if it is worth it. I have ordered my paperwork, and am waiting for it in the mail. I don't know which way to go! What do you guys think? Would you go back to a doctor that made you feel that way? Even if he had some information that could be very important to your health? Knowing that someone else has seen the same doctor and said that his treatments made her worse. I know I have to make the decision, but any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for the help.

Suzy

[janiedelite]

Hi Suzy,

I completely understand your apprehension. I'm sure most of us have been to doctors that we never want to ever see again. Also, it sounds like not only did he have a bad attitude towards you, but that he's lacking in his ability to effectively treat patients! I don't remember where you live, or if you are in a small town. I live in a large town where there are many specialists to choose from, so if I were in this spot I'd call my primary doc (who's very willing to help me) and ask for her recommendation for a different doctor. If she still wanted me to see Dr. Meanie, I'd explain my past experience.

I remember from your past posts that you've had a very difficult time with your local hospital and physicians, that they mistreated you and accused you of faking sick and stuff. Do you have ANY doctor who is on your side, and will help you get a referral to a different specialist?????

Sounds like you might be finally getting some answers, though!!!!

Janie

[all4family]

Hi Janie,

Thank you so much for your understanding. I actually have to travel to see this doctor. He is the only doctor that I have seen out of town that I have had a problem with. I tried with another local doctor to get a pcp, but he kept rolling his eyes at me every time I told him what was wrong with me. So I didn't have any luck with establishing a local pcp. The lady I talked to said that this doctor almost killed her with his inapropriate treatments. Made me just a little wary! I really would like an answer, and am usually willing to give someone a second chance. But I am very nervous about what will happen.

I do have a couple of doctors that are on my side, but can't say anything bad, because they are in the same place.

Yes! you are right about the answers. That is the ONLY reason I am even thinking about it! I guess I could go, and just get the information. Thanks for the support. I really appeciate it!

[firewatcher]

I'd go, but with an attitude and a chip on your shoulder! Bring your other test results and ask him to explain them to you. Tell him point blank that the previous appointment was "an interview" and that he did a lousy job. You have no need of being treated like this and if he is going to persist in "this attitude" then you will seek treatment elsewhere. You KNOW he's a pain in the rear, if his brain is as big as his attitude, then put up with it. But if he is unwilling to "accept a challenging" case you will go find someone who will. Then demand your records, don't leave till you have them and go forth!

Honestly, my endo#1 copped such an attitude till I gave it right back at him (I expected to be escorted from the office! ) then we had a "discussion" and shared our mutual knowledge of my test results. Ultimately it is up to you, and whether or not you feel like you can work WITH him.

[juliegee]

Suzy,

I remember your situation very well. I even recall the woman who discouraged you from seeing this particular doc again. I think you should go- if only to get answers about your DX. This particular doctor has a reputation for not acknowledging MCAD AND he is the one who also treats mastocytosis with chemo. Quite drastic and many of his patients have gotten worse.

You need to figure out if you do indeed have MCAD or mastocytosis. The most likely test that would show that is an elevated serum tryptase test. It would be less likely, but maybe he got an elevated prostaglandin D-2 or elevated methylhistamine result. Regardless, you NEED to know so that you can be properly DXed.

Worst case scenario, he'll tell you- you have mastocytosis (unlikely!) and he wants to do chemo. Simply thank him for his time, ask for your records and walk.

He works for you and you can fire him. Knowing his outrageous reputation (from a reliable resource) can help you feel more in control and powerful during this appt. With this new information, you can better select a new allergist to properly treat you. I can't wait to hear all about it. You go, girl

Big Hugs-

Julie

[Miriam Poorman-Knox]

I would take someone anyone with you. Then let him know they are your advocate. You could ask for a chaplain if its at a hospital. Or have a written printed list of questions to fill in. Good Luck........We are WOmen Hear US ROAR Miriam

[all4family]

Hi Jennifer, Thank you so much. I can always count on you for some encouragement! That is so awesome that you gave the attitude back to him! I used to be like that. I always saw doctors as just people. (I grew up around them.) But with all that has happened I find that I am more afraid of what they will do to me if I stand up for myself. I think I began feeling that way when I was so sick, and helpless, and I knew there was something wrong, and I had to beg doctors to test me. But you are so right. He works for me. And he puts his pants on one leg at a time the same as me! Unless I'm wearing a skirt. But I don't know him well enough to acuse him of that!!!!! Just kidding really! Thank you. I need to remember he is the one being paid to be there!

Hi Julie, thanks. You are right. that is the person who said that. She said she was given chemo, and knows others who were to. Yes I do need the proper diagnoses. I looked up the skin condition you get with mastocytosis, and even though mine are small I get them. Thank you so much for your encouragement. And your right the worse that can happen is he can say something bad. I am not going in for any treatment, just for follow up. And yes he does work for me. My insurance doesn't cover everything, and a lot still has to come out of our pockets. Maybe I should bring my bill in! I tried that with another doctor once, and she said I don't care about money! Now that I have had time to think about it I kind of wish I would have said really, then I can pay you in playdough right? But it would have been a waste of my time. Although funny. Thank you for encouraging me! I think I will go. It is Friday at 9 am. I will let you all know how it goes. ty ty ty ty ty ty ty so much. It means so much to me to have found this site. I would spend all my time here if I could!!! (I come close anyways.) It makes me feel stronger, and more like myself when I have the support of wonderful people like you guys. - gals! Thanks.

Hugs to everyone

Suzy