Doctor help

itsmahgenes

I was in a car accident almost 20 years ago. I never had any pain before the accident but afterwards, I had back pain so bad I could hardly walk. The insurance denied my claims because the doctor listed the cause of the back pain as obesity. Because of the untreated pain, I gained even more weight.

Two years ago, I developed sudden onset severe, widespread pain throughout my body in my tendons along with muscle spasms, tremors, weakness, digestive issues and cognitive issues. My official diagnosis? Generalized pain and obesity. Still looking for a doctor who won’t tell me to take Tylenol, go for a walk and eat more vegetables. I feel like I am dying and I can’t get any help because doctors assume everything is because I am fat and lazy.

Does anyone else experience this level of fat discrimination with your doctor? What should I do?

Mokey41

Are you fat and lazy? With 200 lbs to lose it certainly would seem like you are obese which put a huge strain on your whole body. With age it just gets worse and worse. You can totally lose weight without exercise so start on a good diet plan and get some pounds off if you want some relief. No doctor can take away your pain if you aren't willing to take the steps you need to help yourself.

Before everyone says I'm being mean, I live with someone who is obese and uses every excuse in the book besides his weight to explain his bad knee, his bad back, his breathing problems, his acid reflux and a variety of other issues. Our doctor keeps telling him to lose weight but the doctor is wrong and being mean for not treating the symptoms of his obesity. I don't see it as discrimination, I see it as being told a truth you don't want to hear.

HerpDerp745

Mokey41, I don't think you have any right to assume anyone to be lazy. For all we know, she's correct and really does have trouble finding a doctor just because of her weight. Please read the OPs post completely before passing judgement.

itsmahgenes

I have a list of ailments — severe OA, degenerative disk disease, fibro. I do use narcotics, about twice a week at night, mostly for the excellent relaxation and sleep I get. I use nothing during the day for pain except rest and heat.

The diagnosis for all of these things are not simply "fat and lazy".

USMCnetty90

Has your doctor done any diagnostic testing? The first thing a physician is going to see is you weight. I work in an orthopedic practice and we have patients who are extremely overweight and complain of knee problems... unfortunately the first impression is if they lose weight their knees will fee better.... BUT - sometimes there is a real problem - ligament tears, sever arthritis and so on - our physicians are very good about ruling everything out before suggesting weight loss.... - I'm just using that as an example.... the doctor should rule out everything before he or she strictly blames your pain on your weight... have you tried finding a new physician?

Mokey41

Mokey41, I don't think you have any right to assume anyone to be lazy. For all we know, she's correct and really does have trouble finding a doctor just because of her weight. Please read the OPs post completely before passing judgement.

I ask are you, I didn't say you are. Please read my comment correctly before deciding on your censorship code. Obesity and the lack of ability to exercise do not go hand in hand. Lots of people lose weight without doing any exercise. Lazy is also not being willing to take responsibility for your actions not just not going out jogging.

britzzie

Mokey41, I don't think you have any right to assume anyone to be lazy. For all we know, she's correct and really does have trouble finding a doctor just because of her weight. Please read the OPs post completely before passing judgement.

Please ready others' posts completely before passing judgement. She didn't assume OP was lazy. She asked if they were.

OP...it must be terrible to feel that way. And difficult to hear such a thing from your doctor. I think a second opinion would be a good thing.

However, I would challenge you a bit. It's been two years since the doc told you to go for a walk and eat more vegetables. Did you take any action to help yourself. (ie: Take the doc's advice or seek a second opinion immediately.) You're not helping yourself by doing nothing.

It certainly could be something else. But by taking small and necessary steps toward better health, you could rule out other problems and feel better in the meantime.

I'll offer a counter-story. I had plantar fascia so bad that I could barely walk in the mornings and after I had been sitting or driving for awhile. I spent a ton of money on podiatrist visits, inserts, boots, physical therapy. The doc then suggested a surgery that may or may not work. I declined. Then I lost almost 80lbs and it went away! My weight was causing the problem, and that fact had never been suggested to me. Glad I didn't have that surgery!

sullus

I have the opposite problem. My doctor wants to do all kinds of diagnostic testing and find all kinds of (billable) things wrong with me. I have to keep telling her .. naah, let's revisit this in another 25 lbs, ok?

SirBonerFart

How do you know he is wrong?

_Resolve_

8 Months ago I couldn't walk 50 yards without severe, crippling back pain. I went for an MRI and they told me the same thing your Doctor told you. I went to a physical therapist and started with minimal core exercises, joined a gym and rode the recumbent bike for 20 minutes a day (the first day I lasted a whopping 5 minutes. Fast forward to last weekend, I did a very difficult Mountain Bike circuit on Saturday and Sunday walked 6 miles. I haven't had pain in 5 months.

I know its hard to hear that your pain is caused from your weight, and it seems like an uphill unwinnable battle, start slow and in a few months you will be killing it.

HerpDerp745

I ask are you, I didn't say you are. Please read my comment correctly before deciding on your censorship code. Obesity and the lack of ability to exercise do not go hand in hand. Lots of people lose weight without doing any exercise. Lazy is also not being willing to take responsibility for your actions not just not going out jogging.

I think it's rather obvious you were jumping to conclude the OP is fat and lazy. Why else would that be your first suggestion? The OP knows themselves better than anyone on here and obviously if the OP knew she was fat and lazy she wouldn't be having this problem.

You can sugar coat your judgement whichever way you want -- you're still judging.

Escape_Artist

The diagnosis for all of these things are not simply "fat and lazy".

It might not be, but if I read correctly the doctor asked you to walk and eat more vegetables. Have you been following that advice?
I understand how a condition can prevent you from bein fully active but it isn't the cause of weight gain either. The weight you gained is from over eating, so naturally eating at a deficit will drop your weight.

You said you are still trying to find a doctor who won't say your health problems are related to your weight.
Have you been consulting multiple doctors? If that is the case, then maybe they are on to something.

I don't know, I am not a doctor but if one tells me something I don't want to hear and I go to another that tells me the same, well then I am going to start listening

Tessyloowhoo

I began my weight-loss journey from a wheelchair and a hospital bed. Granted i do have a diagnosis of dysuatonomia and secondary colon failure so they know what is wrong with me BUT losing weight did fabulous things for my health. While you are waiting for the right doctor it might be helpful for you to do what you can to help your illnesses.
It helps you feel more in control of your illness to do whatever you can to make it better.
Good luck to you!

sharonfoustmills

I have all those same issues, and I am determined to change them. You will never really know if you truly have a health problem besides obesity unless you fix the obesity. I actually have a couple more ailments to add to your list with mine, but I know the difference in me before and me now is all this extra weight.

I would look for help with weight loss first, because even when I only lost ten pounds my back and knees were considerably improved.

britzzie

I have a list of ailments — severe OA, degenerative disk disease, fibro. I do use narcotics, about twice a week at night, mostly for the excellent relaxation and sleep I get. I use nothing during the day for pain except rest and heat.

The diagnosis for all of these things are not simply "fat and lazy".

No. But losing weight would help with many of them. Am I right? So are you trying to do that? You don't have to "workout" to make it happen. Eating less will do it at first. Plus there are now several people in the thread with personal stories about how doing just that helped with their medical issues. My suggestion is to take control of what you can and get help for the rest. You can control your diet.

Johanne1957

I ask are you, I didn't say you are. Please read my comment correctly before deciding on your censorship code. Obesity and the lack of ability to exercise do not go hand in hand. Lots of people lose weight without doing any exercise. Lazy is also not being willing to take responsibility for your actions not just not going out jogging.

I think it's rather obvious you were jumping to conclude the OP is fat and lazy. Why else would that be your first suggestion? The OP knows themselves better than anyone on here and obviously if the OP knew she was fat and lazy she wouldn't be having this problem.

You can sugar coat your judgement whichever way you want -- you're still judging.

I didn't think she was judging...and like others have said...if physical activity is not possible at this moment, diet control will help weight loss until OP can start some sort of exercise...

itsscottwilder

First I think there's a legit timeline: No pain > accident > pain

I would think any doctor should have investigated the possibility of the pain being accident related.

So hindsight being 20/20 I agree that you should have sought a second opinion immediately.

So go find another doctor ASAP. Maybe an Internal Medicine specialist.

In the mean time.There is nothing stopping you from making some diet adjustments to begin the weight loss process.

I hope you find the right doc and get to feeling better soon!

itsmahgenes

Please all, lets keep this productive. I know who the haters are. I'm used to this in my journey. Sadly, this is a normal part of my life. Fat hate is very common.

I see what some of you are saying that is more constructive. I think I do need a new doctor. One that can understand what the true underlying problems are and not just make a snap diagnosis.

Can anyone recommend some questions to ask to separate fat hating doctors from normal ones that are compassionate?

sdpeklo

Perhaps seeing an "alternative medicine doctor". (Not voodoo people)....like a wellness specialist. Sometimes they look for alternate ways to help you. It's just a suggestion. Sometimes these people can introduce you to yoga ..or .prayer....I have met some people who practice mindful eating based off their spiritual beliefs.

Also look for some posts of people on here that made it their goal to walk to their mailbox or something similar. Then the next day they went 5 steps past their mailbox. Everyone starts somewhere....there is no quick fix. However you took a positive step by being on here, posting and seeking out resources. Friend request if you want...sounds like you need some support on jour journey. All the best to you!

jewel22887

OP I understand where you are coming from. I have always been overweight and was a military brat so i changed doctors every visit and the first thing they all said was lose weight. I was very disappointing and frustrating I did eat my vegetables and walked and did everything right but all they saw was a fat kid. When I settled down on my own I found a great OB that listened to things and asked my family history and really cared she tested me for things that may cause my weight gain and found I indeed have hypothyroidism something I was sure I had in 8th grade when I read about it in health but my doctors wouldn't test me saying I am just lazy. We also found out I have a heart condition, non alcoholic fatty liver disease, asthma and endomeatriosis.

Having said that she also took the time to introduce me to MFP and talk to me about ways to help with the weight loss and with the loss I have seen many of the symptoms go away. Nothing I have is cured by not being fat but it is all easier to manage. Not everything is caused by fat but a heck of a lot gets easier with out it.

By all means find a doctor who is going to respond better to your questions but it's not going to change the fact they are all going to want you to lose weight.

PikaKnight

At my heaviest (245lbs and I'm 5'1) I had really bad back problems and that was in my mid-20's. After dropping the first 30lbs...talk about a huge difference. Now, I rarely ever get issues and even if I do get a slight twinge, it's gone in less than a day. Your doctor is right. Lose the weight. It isn't them being fat discriminatory. It's the truth.


ETA: When I say bad, I mean cortisone shots in the back and the talk of possible surgery was out on the table.

itsmahgenes

jewel22887, your response is so refreshing. I also have thyroid problems that make losing weight difficult. The less I eat, the worse I feel. How did you overcome this?

OP I understand where you are coming from. I have always been overweight and was a military brat so i changed doctors every visit and the first thing they all said was lose weight. I was very disappointing and frustrating I did eat my vegetables and walked and did everything right but all they saw was a fat kid. When I settled down on my own I found a great OB that listened to things and asked my family history and really cared she tested me for things that may cause my weight gain and found I indeed have hypothyroidism something I was sure I had in 8th grade when I read about it in health but my doctors wouldn't test me saying I am just lazy. We also found out I have a heart condition, non alcoholic fatty liver disease, asthma and endomeatriosis.

Having said that she also took the time to introduce me to MFP and talk to me about ways to help with the weight loss and with the loss I have seen many of the symptoms go away. Nothing I have is cured by not being fat but it is all easier to manage. Not everything is caused by fat but a heck of a lot gets easier with out it.

By all means find a doctor who is going to respond better to your questions but it's not going to change the fact they are all going to want you to lose weight.

britzzie

OP...so you come in for advice and when you get some that is not what you wanted to hear, those giving it are expressing "fat hate"?

Your weight is making your medical problems worse. You could get a really non-judgmental doc who won't even mention your weight. He/she will run all kinds of tests, prescribe all kinds of meds, and maybe do surgery. All of those possible "solutions" will likely continue to be hindered by your weight.

I get that it is a hard realization to come to. I just cannot comprehend for the life of me why you would so utterly reject what could be the advice that would make your quality of life skyrocket, as other posters have experienced.

Feel like a victim and act like a victim and you'll always be a victim. I'm rooting for you to find a good doc and take some of the advice that you don't want to hear to heart.

casmithis

Perhaps seeing an "alternative medicine doctor". (Not voodoo people)....like a wellness specialist. Sometimes they look for alternate ways to help you. It's just a suggestion. Sometimes these people can introduce you to yoga ..or .prayer....I have met some people who practice mindful eating based off their spiritual beliefs.

Also look for some posts of people on here that made it their goal to walk to their mailbox or something similar. Then the next day they went 5 steps past their mailbox. Everyone starts somewhere....there is no quick fix. However you took a positive step by being on here, posting and seeking out resources. Friend request if you want...sounds like you need some support on jour journey. All the best to you!

THIS^ i went to an iridologist (reads the iris of your eye) when I had severe ankle pain and told by my doctor just stop running (seriously??!!!). The iridologist had me not eat certain foods that was causing inflamation and build up in my joints (ankles mostly). Instant pain relief, felt better and lost weight (even though that wasn't part of her plan).

It was $80 for the initial visit and best $80 I've spent.

Good luck and hope you are pain free soon.

Escape_Artist

jewel22887, your response is so refreshing. I also have thyroid problems that make losing weight difficult. The less I eat, the worse I feel. How did you overcome this?

Have you been tested for it?
If so, aren't you being followed by a doctor?

I don't know where exactly you live but here when you get a Dx you are followed by a physician.
Maybe you could ask that doctor to help you out?

itsmahgenes

Thank you open minded non fat haters. You are both gems among lots of rough. I'm used to this type of hatred, it rolls off of me.

Would you tell me what kind of foods the radiologist had you avoid? Thank you!

Perhaps seeing an "alternative medicine doctor". (Not voodoo people)....like a wellness specialist. Sometimes they look for alternate ways to help you. It's just a suggestion. Sometimes these people can introduce you to yoga ..or .prayer....I have met some people who practice mindful eating based off their spiritual beliefs.

Also look for some posts of people on here that made it their goal to walk to their mailbox or something similar. Then the next day they went 5 steps past their mailbox. Everyone starts somewhere....there is no quick fix. However you took a positive step by being on here, posting and seeking out resources. Friend request if you want...sounds like you need some support on jour journey. All the best to you!

THIS^ i went to an iridologist (reads the iris of your eye) when I had severe ankle pain and told by my doctor just stop running (seriously??!!!). The iridologist had me not eat certain foods that was causing inflamation and build up in my joints (ankles mostly). Instant pain relief, felt better and lost weight (even though that wasn't part of her plan).

It was $80 for the initial visit and best $80 I've spent.

Good luck and hope you are pain free soon.

itsmahgenes

I wonder if you're even reading anything I'm writing

jewel22887, your response is so refreshing. I also have thyroid problems that make losing weight difficult. The less I eat, the worse I feel. How did you overcome this?

Have you been tested for it?
If so, aren't you being followed by a doctor?

I don't know where exactly you live but here when you get a Dx you are followed by a physician.
Maybe you could ask that doctor to help you out?

Escape_Artist

I wonder if you're even reading anything I'm writing

Actually I am, which is why I am asking

itsmahgenes

If you were you'd know that my doctor says "go home fatty and lose some weight". I haven't had any tests, but everything on the internet says I have a thyroid problem. All my friends say so too. If I eat too little, I loose balance, constant fatique, increased pain, increased instances of illness.

So how can food cause pain and make pain to?

I wonder if you're even reading anything I'm writing

Actually I am, which is why I am asking

britzzie

If you were you'd know that my doctor says "go home fatty and lose some weight". I haven't had any tests, but everything on the internet says I have a thyroid problem. All my friends say so too. If I eat too little, I loose balance, constant fatique, increased pain, increased instances of illness.

So how can food cause pain and make pain to?

I wonder if you're even reading anything I'm writing

Actually I am, which is why I am asking

People will all of your ailments "severe OA, degenerative disk disease, fibro" and "thyroid problems" generally have more than one doctor. And apparently you haven't seen a doc in two years?

So that begs the question: Have you actually been diagnosed with these ailments or you just self-diagnosed using the internet?

Escape_Artist

If you were you'd know that my doctor says "go home fatty and lose some weight". I haven't had any tests, but everything on the internet says I have a thyroid problem. All my friends say so too. If I eat too little, I loose balance, constant fatique, increased pain, increased instances of illness.

So how can food cause pain and make pain to?

I'm sorry to say this but unless you have an official Dx for Hypothyroidism from a doctor after being tested for it then you do not have Thyroid problems.

Are you tracking your food and weighting everything? Because that is the way to go about knowing if you are eating too little or too much.

A lot of people attribute their weight gain/ Weight loss failure to Thyroid problems when in fact it's related to their lifestyle and diet. I am not saying that is your case, you might actually have Hypothyroidism but unless it has been tested positive my a physician, then it's only speculations.

You can follow your doctor's recommendation and see where it brings you or you can hunt another doctor and see what he tells you.

We can give you tips on diet and exercise and how to try and lose weight but we are not doctors and won't confirm a Dx we know nothing about.

I am sorry to say but from your posts, it seems you diagnose yourself with diseased/conditions instead of looking at what the real problem might be.