Often, we put our trust into those we deem to have more knowledge than ourselves; parents, teachers, or doctors.
I was 15 when I had s second food bolus lodged in the upper portion of my oesophagus. I spent over 12 hours in A&E unable to eat, drink or swallow my saliva. Instead, I spat into a sick bowl for these long and painful hours while doctors decided if I was a problem for ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) or Gastro.
The following morning, I had my first endoscope to dislodge the chicken I had choked on over 12 hours. I didn’t understand what was going on, I was so tired, confused and scared. During that endoscope in 2017, the doctor took biopsies to check for the presence of eosinophils. I didn’t know this until 2019, I was never told by any medical professional. After the bolus was pushed down I returned home shaken up and unable to eat solid food. I flew to Mexico the following day to volunteer for 3 weeks. While packing, I made sure to pack powdered liquid meals. Unfortunately, there were days when I couldn’t manage solid food and had to rely on these.
Upon my arrival back home, I returned to the same hospital I was in just 3 weeks ago. Now, before I explain this story any further, I want it to be known that I do still struggle with this part as it hurts me to share. Deep down, I know that I am still bitter towards the situation and the doctor.
My mum and I were led into a small consultation room, where I felt belittled from the outset. The doctor intimidated me despite being small in stature, he sat, clutching papers which had my biopsy results. Results which confirmed I did have EoE. This doctor disregarded my diagnosis and informed me I had acid reflux which explained my irritated throat.
His advice – 8 gaviscon tablets a day (no prescription by the way!)
For me, I knew this was not the issue. I knew it wasn’t simply acid reflux. I told my mum and she said to listen to the doctor ‘he knows what he’s talking about.’
Its difficult to forgive, given my position now, which will be explained in my next blog post 😉 . I do want to forgive and forget but moving is challenging when this doctors decision has had such a large impact on my life. However, that’s something I need to work on, myself. At the end of the day it is only me who is living with this condition so why should I be bitter towards a doctor who chose not to present facts and treat accordingly.
My Chronically Class Life 