Derek S. Distinguishing the physical from the psychological

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Question

I recently was diagnosed with osteoporosis and have been taking Forteo injections for about three weeks. Things have been really busy and stressful at work. My TMS symptoms are really flared up. I've had this before and got it manageable, partly through reading Sarno's books. But now that I have a concern about the osteo, I don't know whether the symptoms are due to the new med, my anxiety about the med, the stress and busyness of the semester wrapping up, or all of the above. Any words of wisdom?

 

Answer

Hi there.

It is hard for me to say what is causing your symptoms based on the limited information and the presence of multiple factors that could be contributing to your condition.

Since you have a history of TMS and have gotten it under control in the past, it is likely that there is some psychogenic component at play here. Keep working on addressing your fear and your emotions because that is something that is healthy for you both physically and psychologically.

Osteoporosis is a legitimate condition so my best advice would be to consult further with your treating physician about the potential side effects of the medication. Be upfront about your tendency to develop psychogenic symptoms and try to work with your physician collaboratively to rule out any structural causes.

If you feel like you need further medical help to distinguish which symptoms are TMS and which are not, consult with a TMS doctor to get a second opinion.

It is important to be thorough in ruling out structural causes and to not ever assume that something is TMS without doing your due diligence and consulting the right professionals.

I hope that you are able to find some clarity regarding your symptoms.

Best of luck.

-Derek

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Any advice or information provided here does not and is not intended to be and should not be taken to constitute specific professional or psychological advice given to any group or individual. This general advice is provided with the guidance that any person who believes that they may be suffering from any medical, psychological, or mindbody condition should seek professional advice from a qualified, registered/licensed physician and/or psychotherapist who has the opportunity to meet with the patient, take a history, possibly examine the patient, review medical and/or mental health records, and provide specific advice and/or treatment based on their experience diagnosing and treating that condition or range of conditions. No general advice provided here should be taken to replace or in any way contradict advice provided by a qualified, registered/licensed physician and/or psychotherapist who has the opportunity to meet with the patient, take a history, possibly examine the patient, review medical and/or mental health records, and provide specific advice and/or treatment based on their experience diagnosing and treating that condition or range of conditions.

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