She had a complicated history, due to her illness, her husband left her for another woman, and the disease manifest itself, like a vicious cycle. She had been to many private centres. All with the similar complaints of short of breath. She did CT coronary angiogram that was normal but found and incidental pulmonary embolism. Then she was referred to us for further treatment.
Due to her psychiatric condition, not many people can tolerate her. She was even being scolded by a renown private cardiologist for her persistent complaints, saying that she is a pain in the nether region and she is going to die with her illness!
I saw her again in clinic last week.
She was with her usual flowery and bright dress. I thought trouble came back knocking on the door again. The first few minutes of consultation, I was half hoping that she didn't dwell into the old problems. I let her talk. She went on with her family problems, how her disease actually concerns her. She had been compliant to the treatments and her INR was within target range. I praised her for her effort. I didn't interrupt her and I let her ventilate. She went on and on. After 15 minutes I came to a conclusion, set her targets and set an appointment date for her.
It seems to go on very well this time.
The morale of the story is, we can't cure a disease all the time. Nor we can solve the family matters, the financial woes and issues around. We can listen. Hear the problem out. Take some time to let them ventilate. Give a reassurance nod from time to time. Be patience. The answer to the their problem often lies within them.
Cheers.
