The medical mill

Recently I was (cautiously) diagnosed as having Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by my gp. He prescribed splints to be worn at night in the hope the symptoms would lessen or even disappear. Eh, that didn't happen. So, back to the gp I went. After coming back from my holiday, I will be seeing a neurologist, who will be measuring my nerves and such to see whether it is or not. Treatment will then be based on that outcome.

I have also been plagued by a dodgy knee lately. A few years ago I went sledding (great day out) and at the end of the day I fell on some ice. I think that may have caused the problems I have now. So, on that return visit because of my hands I also talked to him about my knee. After listening and feeling, he suspected it might be Osteoarthritis, which set my alarm bells ringing. X-ray time.

Last Friday it was done and this week the result came back: no excessive wear and tear or signs of osteoarthritis to be seen. Which was a massive relief, although the pain is still there. Next stop: physiotherapist. 

And I may have mentioned it once or twice in the past: I occasionally have a headache. And I am pleased to say that since moving into my new home I have not had any severe attacks. I think the main reason may actually be that I am drinking a lot more, so I may have solved the conundrum: I was severely dehydrated. Of course it is too soon to tell, but as of today I have been 30 days without and I mean WITHOUT. Bring on the tea...

Then of course there is the menopause which hit once I stopped the pill. Well, I say hit, more of a brush with a very soft feather really. The occasional warmish flash and that was it. I think I can safely say that I have managed to dodge that one!

There was the do I or don't I have a cervix question. Which is important for the screening of cervical cancer in case of the affirmative. However, a trip to the gynaecologist meant that we are now certain: I don't. Which means that the only screening I am now eligible for is the mammary screening for breast cancer. I have not had my invitation yet, but do expect it soon, as I have turned 50 (which is the starting point in the Netherlands).

All of the above definitely means I am in the medical mill. I just hope to get some answers regarding knees and hands. The hands are a definite nuisance that will occasionally throw up problems, but I am afraid of losing power in them, which would not be good in my job. The knee is a literal pain that bothers me especially in bed and at work. The two areas where I really don't need it, as one should give me rest for the other.

Fortunately the mental side is doing fine. I have become a yes-person again (more on that next week) and the meetings with new people may be short and fleeting, it does get me out of the house.