Chest Pain and M.E./C.F.S.

Hi,

I had a new symptom start around 6 months ago and, because of the infamous being 'fobbed off' incident, it was only investigated this week. Here's what has been going on.

I started to get pain in my right breast that could have been caused by any number of factors. I assumed it would most likely be related to hormonal changes as I suspect I am now perimenopausal (not confirmed by blood tests but signs are there). I found a large painful lump that was tender all of the time but had started to be severely painful when I moved. At the moment, just the movement involved with breathing is painful.

I have been speaking to a couple of Foggy's medically trained Followers about it privately and their support has been amazing. When you are 'fobbed off' by a GP you kind of have to turn to friends for advice. I have now changed GP practices and the new GP is taking me seriously! I have been referred to hospital for tests for all of the things I tried to bring to the attention of my old GP a couple of months ago.

This week I went to the Breast Care team at Q.A Hospital in Portsmouth. I had the full works - manual investigation, mammogram, and ultrasound. The team were very friendly, approachable and completely put me at ease. What a contrast to how I am treated with M.E./C.F.S. stuff! I said as much to the consultant and she said it was shameful that medical professionals are arrogant enough to think they know everything about the human body. She empathised with our plight.

Anyway, the consultant concluded that I have a musculoskeletal thing going on. So, the problem is with bones and the surrounding tissue rather than the breast itself. She didn't give me a label to call it by (it may well have one, I just don't know it). She said my problem is exacerbated by having a 'small frame' (I LOVE this woman lol) and an 'ample bosom' (um...thanks). Moving the weight of said 'ample bosom' causes the pain. Suggested treatment was in the form of getting a more well-structured bra (granny bra here I come...booo. MEN, you have no idea how difficult it is to find a well-fitting bra!) and rubbing anti-inflammatory painkiller gel into my breast.

I have been told by many of Foggy's Followers that musculoskeletal chest pain is common with M.E./C.F.S. I said this to the consultant. She said that she didn't know if that was the case but that musculoskeletal pain is common amongst women in general. I'd be interested to know if M.E./C.F.S. patients are at a higher risk. I've done a bit of online research but couldn't find any research info. I also have Hypermobility Syndrome so have wonky cartilage, I wonder if that is part of the issue.

It's been a bit of a nightmare week with lots of appointments but at least my current health stuff is being dealt with and being investigated.  I had a blood test yesterday. It's part of the investigations into my nerve pain issues. It never rains but it pours! Once I know what is going on with that, I'm sure I'll be writing a blog about it!

Love,

Sally xxx
(and Foggy OBVIOUSLY!!)