ocd and chronic illness

Relate hardcore to this! Health OCD is my biggest area of struggle. I’ve been chronically ill all my life (in my early 30s now), and after decades of having to advocate for myself and searching for answers, it gets exhausting. And, so many health issues are comorbid/co-occur with one another, so this is an endless loop I find myself in. This year, I’ve finally started getting answers, which is validating and feels great to know it’s not all in my head, but then I worry about what else hasn’t been diagnosed. And, the healthcare system and insurance doesn’t make any of it easier! I have dysautonomia as well (POTS/vasaovagal)- I’m now diagnosed almost fully with the golden trifecta: hypermobile ehlers danlos (hEds),POTS and likely MCAS, on top of autoimmune issues, lots of GI issues, etc. You know your body better than anyone, but also remember that stress can do a lot to your symptoms as well. I’m only newly in OCD therapy, but I’m hoping this is one big area I can get help in. You’re not alone, just remember that. 🙏

Cannot relate, however this does sound exasperating, so good thoughts and prayers going out to you, a.lea! I truly hope some success comes through all your research and dedication to your own well-being.✍️🙏💪

I can relate. I have chronic vestibular migraines. I get vertigo dizziness and headaches plus other symptoms with it. I agree dealing with healthcare part of it sucks. Also before finally getting help many drs brushed me off saying oh it’s probably your anxiety. Grr arghh. But yeah my ocd brain latches on, I researched a ton too. Sorry you’re going through it.

Having Chronic Illness on top of Health Concern OCD is the worst combination ever and from the bottom of my heart extend my deepest condolences to you for having to live with both of these conditions.

I’m 37, AFAB and also have Dysautonomia, POTS, hEDS, MCAS, AuDHD and GI issues. I’ve been hearing I was a hypochondriac or overreacting from doctors (and my parents and other people) my whole life. Then over the past year or so I’ve been in and out of the hospital with different issues, so my PCP finally started taking me seriously and ordering tests and referrals for a rheumatologist, an immunologist, and a gastroenterologist who all confirmed my own “self-diagnosis” of the trifecta. It’s been a journey and insurance has not made it an easy one!

Only for Ssri med

Hello! I was talking medicine (namely duloxetine) for many years because of dysautonomia. But I also have CPTSD and PCOS so I think there's just imbalances all around. Yes I can relate to health OCD. I think one of the most helpful things you being aware that you are in "overdrive." Typical thoughts just kind of float on by but OCD, as you know, is unrelenting and exhausting to listen too. Lately I've given those thoughts a silly name like Frank so that I can almost treat it as separate from me and then look at my symptoms objectively. You can still see a doctor but if it's symptoms you're used too then OCD will try to make you more afraid then what you already know so once it goes into overdrive it's not reality anymore. It's so frustrating but with practice, prayer (for me!) and being kind to yourself, it does get better!