Wooohoooo...!
Way to go Marlena. :woot:
Here are a few suggestions if you want to cut to the chase with your new doctor. Upon meeting your doctor, shake his or her hand and make eye contact. Touch is especially important in the beginning as it's been shown that after a touch, even from a stranger, the person you are encountering is more likely to be attentive. This has been clearly demonstrated with banking clerks and their clientele. Never rely on your memory. When you're in a new situation it can create anxiety, and reduce blood flow to your frontal lobe regions. This can cause you to just go blank when under pressure to answer questions, which you may be bombarded with in the beginning. You want to make sure your doctor doesn't miss important information on your first visit. Write down any pertinent questions you have.
I would also suggest writing a detailed letter to your new doctor. Describe your symptoms, the thoughts you have while experiencing the symptoms as well as post-thoughts. Describe any possible correlations you've notice that may cause triggers. Share your frustrating trials with doctors as well. Do this as diplomatically as possible for obvious reasons.
The reason I suggest that you include the trials you've had with doctors 'and' insurance companies is because they have definitely contributed to your stress and emotional well being.
Make the letter as comprehensive as possible. Give your doctor a visual picture of your situation. Let the doctor keep the letter for reviewing again later. It will be in your medical files. Be sure to keep a copy for yourself. Also note on your copy that you gave the letter to your doctor on such and such date and time. Take notes on the back of your copy when possible.
Your letter should assist in expediting treatment, if required. Just keep in mind that neuropsychs have filters too, as well as stressors and they can seem like they are paying attention, but may not be fully focused on you. Documenting your symptoms and emotions may help prevent any misinterpretation from your doctor. You will also be able to use your documentation as a reference when you need to bring something to their attention.
PNES
Treatment may involve psychotherapy, stress-reduction techniques (such as relaxation and biofeedback training), and personal support to help you cope with the seizures during the course of treatment. Source:
http://hsc.usf.edu/com/epilepsy/pnesbrochure.pdf
Ask your doctor about cognitive-neurofeedback training as well as incorporating mindfulness/impartial spectator training. One more note: Be sure to seek out a neuropsych who specializes in PNES, if at all possible. You live in California, so hopefully you have a larger pool to chose from, especially if you live near a university.
Hope this helps some. It may seem like a lot of homework at first, but it may save you a lot of time and money in the long run, and your doctor will see that you are proactive. I wish you the very best, and please keep us abreast of your progress. Congrats on your success, and good luck with your new dr.
