Re : Does stress play a part : your view

[Guest guest]

Hello Colin,

This is a difficult one and one to which you may get different

answers. I think many CP sufereres will answer that stress

definitely plays a part in provoking flare-ups. Docs, even

specialists, may well say it doesn't!!

I am a bit ambivalent myself. I have had times of great stress when

I have not had attacks. I have also had attacks when I could not

identify any obvious rise in stress levels. I have also definitely

had times when I could link a flare-up to increased stress, pressure

of work, exams etc. etc. I have been able to make other links over

the years as well, eg. increased, sudden or sustained exercise can

provoke a flare-up. There are also dietary links of course. Heidi's

advice on keeping a food diary is very useful for this aspect. Of

course, you could also note other factors such as stress levels,

pressure etc.

For myself, I have to say that I have not been able to identify one

single definite cause of flare-ups but some factors do seem to

contribute. Sadly, there are also times when attacks hit you for no

apparent reason. At least, that has been my experience.

I do realise the work situation is causing you some considerable

concern at the moment. I do hope you are helped to make some

decisions soon. I agree that it is difficult to decide to stay off

work until everything is known about your condition; that may take

quite some time. Have you not had sound advice from the docs

themselves on this one? (Sorry if I've missed it in reading all the

posts.)

With very good wishes,

Fliss (UK)