I didn't pack for this journey.
One of the wonderful discoveries on this Drifting through Dysautonomia is the amazing Cleveland Clinic.
Doctors work on a salary basis, rather than being paid by the number of patients they see in a day and the number of tests they order. This means that I have received excellent, patient-focused care without any urgency to leave the room or any additional, unnecessary medical procedures and expense.
It’s Wednesday, April 30, 2024. I’ve never felt older. Perhaps, because I’ve actually never BEEN older. Or…and stay with me here…the constellation of symptoms of my particular Dysautonomia have made me feel as if I’m a decrepit 80-year-old. I’ve been immobilized and discouraged for over a year. I’ve looked for answers. I’ve said prayers. I’ve visited doctors. And until yesterday, I didn’t have many answers. Okay. None. No answers. Zero.
But yesterday I met with a muscular neurology specialist at the Cleveland Clinic who confirmed my diagnosis and explained there are no quick fixes…or perhaps ANY fixes. Oh sure, this could be discouraging to any other octogenarian-to-be, but not for this cane-using, walking (okay, limping) wounded.
Doc (we’re not on a first name basis yet) says that I have three possible options that might, could possibly, maybe, perhaps, conceivably make a difference within a year. Or not.
First, I should consume a anti-inflammatory diet. Think “Mediterranean”. In fact, I’m pretty sure he said something about traveling to the Mediterranean (Italy, Greece, perhaps) and eating the food. Unfortunately, I’m not sure my insurance covers airline tickets and hotel rooms.
Second, exercise using the Zone method and sticking with Zone 2 (whatever that is).
Third, consider adding a medication to reduce my debilitating fatigue and clear up that pesky brain fog that’s plagued me for the last 14 months. Or was it 12 months? 10 months? Oh, who cares?
Again, these are POSSIBLE remedies. These activities MIGHT bring about change. Fat and Lazy replaced by Greek Yogurt and Long Hikes COULD reduce symptoms, increase energy, and make for a more normal life.
The next 365 days of pita bread and olives, leisurely strolls and pharmaceuticals will either make a difference or not. What to come along for the walk?