Doctor! Doctor!
Having a chronic disease can result in a multitude of specialist for every little ache, pain and symptom. It used to be that all I needed in my back pocket was a family physician that could suggest a referral if something came up that was over and above what she could easily treat.
Alas, that idea simply disappeared after an MS diagnosis.
Here is my most current list of specialists that I visit at least once a year or more often if a flare of one thing or another rears its ugly head:
Family physician: for minor ailments and vaccinations
Neurologist: for all things related to Multiple Sclerosis
Pentac Specialist: monitors and refills my Baclofen pump
Urologist: bladder and bowel issues
Optometrist: all things related to my eyes
Dentist: check up and cleaning every 6 months
Cardiologist: low blood pressure and high heart rate
Pain specialist: nerve pain and spine degeneration
Radiologist: MRI’s, CT scans, ultrasounds, and X-rays
Podiatrist: calluses from foot drop
ENT: hearing, tinnitus and swallowing
Hematologist: monitors any blood disorders
Sally Jobe Breast Clinic: yearly mammogram
Physical Therapist: muscle atrophy
Sleep Specialist: for sleep apnea
After actually writing down this list, I have come to the conclusion that I am a needy and mysterious mess!