My Inner Self Healing

Hello, lovely souls! As a self-healing coach, I’m here to support you on your journey to wellness. Today, I want to talk about something close to my heart: the importance of routine check-ups, especially when dealing with autoimmune diseases, how we can overcome the fears that often come with visiting the doctor, and how to support someone with an autoimmune disease.

Understanding Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system, which usually protects us from harmful invaders, mistakenly attacks our own healthy cells. Conditions like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis are some examples. These diseases can be complex and challenging, but with early detection and proper management, we can live vibrant, fulfilling lives.

The Importance of Routine Check-ups for Autoimmune Diseases

Routine check-ups are crucial for catching autoimmune diseases early. The sooner we identify any issues, the better our chances of managing them effectively. Early detection can lead to better treatment outcomes and a higher quality of life.

For those already diagnosed, regular check-ups allow doctors to monitor disease progression and adjust treatments as needed. This ensures that we’re always on the best path to health.

Regular visits to the doctor help in managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Through routine check-ups, we can stay on top of our health and make necessary adjustments to our lifestyle and treatment plans.

Common Fears and Anxieties About Doctor Visits

It’s natural to feel anxious about doctor visits, especially when dealing with something as serious as an autoimmune disease. Let’s explore some common fears and how we can address them:

1. Fear of Diagnosis: The fear of being diagnosed with a chronic condition can be overwhelming. It’s important to remember that knowledge is power. Understanding what’s happening in our bodies allows us to take control and make informed decisions about our health.
2. Fear of the Unknown: Not knowing what’s wrong can be scarier than knowing. Routine check-ups provide clarity and peace of mind, helping us move forward with confidence.
3. Treatment Fears: Concerns about potential side effects and long-term use of medications are valid. Open communication with healthcare providers can help us understand our treatment options and feel more in control.

This poem expresses my fears and emotions about how my ulcerative colitis journey began:

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Silent Struggles

It whispered in the silence
Now it shouts through the noise

A slight shadow might have been cast
Now like a dark cloud, it stalks around

The seeds were scattered into the mind
Now the roots strangle the body

A step perhaps that would have been brave
Now a stumble in all its fears

Time moves swiftly as the consultation nears
Now time stands still as the diagnosis is presented

This unknown has reared its ugly head
Now acknowledged, what lies ahead?

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Overcoming Fears

As we face these fears, here are some strategies that can help us feel more empowered:

• Educating Ourselves: Learning about autoimmune diseases can reduce fear and anxiety. Knowledge gives us the confidence to face our health challenges head-on.
• Building a Support System: Surrounding ourselves with family, friends, and support groups can provide the emotional strength we need to navigate our health journey. As a coach with years of experience living with autoimmune diseases, please feel free to reach out.
• Open Communication with Doctors: Being honest with our doctors about our fears and concerns allows them to provide the best care possible. They are there to help us, not just treat us.

My story: How it began

I was terrified. I knew something wasn’t right. I delayed going to the doctor. I thought it would go away; it was just stress or something I ate—I made all the excuses. But it wasn’t going away. Eventually, I mustered enough courage and made the call.

The next appointment available with this specialist was three weeks away. Relief! I can wait three weeks. I was then asked what my symptoms were. I gave them. I was told to come in the next day. (WHAT!) “With those symptoms, the doctor has to see you right away.” My legs turned to jelly. I cried. I assumed the worst.

During my consult, the specialist urged me to have a scope done immediately. I knew if I didn’t have it then, I might not return. The stress and anxiety would be too much. I agreed to it. The diagnosis was that I had ulcerative colitis. And that was the start of a very bumpy journey (more on that in upcoming blogs).

Fast forward ten years, I went for my annual check-up (yes, no longer that frequent visits are needed) and I had the best report to date! The doctor was so happy. I was healthy and flare-free! Managing this disease has not been easy. I still don’t fancy going for check-ups but educating myself, having a good support system, talking to my doctors, and changing my mindset and lifestyle has been my saving grace.

Side Note: Supporting Someone with an Autoimmune Disease

When talking to someone with an autoimmune disease, it’s crucial to be sensitive, supportive, and avoid statements that can be dismissive, offensive, or hurtful. You may intend to be supportive, but it might not come across that way. Here are things you should not say to someone with an autoimmune disease:

• “You don’t look sick.” Many autoimmune diseases have invisible symptoms. This statement can make us feel invalidated.
• “Just think positive, and you’ll get better.” While a positive mindset can help, it doesn’t replace medical treatment or fully address our condition.
• “Have you tried this new diet/supplement/exercise?” Unsolicited advice can be frustrating and implies that we aren’t doing enough to manage our health.
• “My friend has the same thing, and they’re fine.” Autoimmune diseases vary greatly from person to person, and comparisons can be unhelpful and hurtful.
• “Are you sure it’s that bad?” This can make us feel doubted and misunderstood.
• “Maybe you’re just stressed.” This diminishes the real, physical aspects of our condition.
• “It could be worse.” While intended to be comforting, this can come across as dismissive of our struggles.
• “You’re always sick.” This can make us feel guilty or like a burden to others.
• “Why don’t you just [do this]?” Autoimmune diseases are complex, and managing them is often not straightforward.
• “You’re so lazy.” Fatigue is a common symptom, and we may need more rest than others.

Supportive Alternatives

Know that we do want your support, some days are better than others. Try these alternatives instead:

• “How are you feeling today?”
• “Is there anything I can do to help?”
• “I’m here for you if you need to talk.”
• “I admire your strength in dealing with this.”
• “Let me know if you need anything, even just someone to listen.”
• “Take your time, and don’t feel pressured to push yourself.”

Being empathetic and offering practical support can help someone with an autoimmune disease feel understood and cared for.

So as I close off, I hope you understand that routine check-ups are a vital part of maintaining our health, especially when living with autoimmune diseases. By confronting our fears, seeking knowledge, and building a strong support system, we can navigate our health journeys with confidence and resilience. Remember, you are not alone. Together, we can embrace a path to healing and wellness.

Stay healthy and be kind to yourself.

Your Fellow Autoimmune Warrior
Amisha