Mental whiplash
I’m trying a forum, because I don’t know what else to try. I’ve been diagnosed based on symptoms (extremely painful periods lasting 11 days, worsening after an IUD, extreme fatigue, inflammatory responses, painful urination and bowel movements, PMDD, nausea, brain fog, nerve pain) because they can’t find anything on the ultrasound or MRI. I’m on the waiting list for a laparoscopy and I’m terrified they won’t find anything once again. I keep thinking I made it all up and that my symptoms are fake. I really struggle to keep up at work and my sleeping schedule is horrendous. ChatGPT has really helped me track symptoms and discerning what might or might not be related to endometriosis, and to keep me from gaslighting myself that nothing is going on. But then I see people going to the ER or actually passing out from symptoms and I feel guilty or like I don’t have it worse enough… I get whiplash trying to deal with the endometriosis, but I mostly feel so misunderstood trying to inform people how I’m feeling and how every day is different, yet somehow equally horrible. It’s hard to find a balance acknowledging the toll on me and finding a healthy distraction.
I hear you and believe you! It's so common for folks with endometriosis to be ignored and dismissed. It's no wonder you start to gaslight yourself when everyone around you is treating you that way! Please know that you are not alone. If there's anyone who understands what you're going through it's the members in this community. We're here to help you however we can. Have you gotten an appointment yet for a laparoscopy? Let us know when you do! Sending you warm hugs and healing thoughts.
- Kat (Team Member)Hi Kat,
Thank you for these kind words. My surgery is in about two weeks and I’ve gone down a spiral of “they’re not going to find anything”, which isn't helping the nerves. But there is a relief that I’m finally getting answers!
Sending warm hugs and healing thought back to you.I'm glad to hear you have your surgery scheduled! But totally understand your spiraling thoughts. To hopefully help you ease your mind in the meantime, here are a couple articles to help prepare you for the procedure:
https://endometriosis.net/living/prepare-laparoscopy
https://endometriosis.net/diagnosis/laparoscopy-surgery-biopsy
We'll be thinking about you and hoping you finally get some answers. Please reach out if you have any questions or need support.
Warmly,
Kat (Team Member)
