In reference to other types of headaches, there is this amusing exchange:
And it ended with a new patient whose husband has taken control of her medical management. I know this, because he told me up front that he has. He credits himself with saving her life twice from incompetent doctors. (I'm just the latest in a long line.) At any rate he was explaining to me what tests I should do to investigate a recent episode of medial rectus palsy. He's convinced that it was caused by the same condition he has.Husband: Surely, you've heard of PTO.
Me: Ummm. No, I haven't.
Husband: Unbelievable. It's very common medical terminology. (Then, very slowly, as if talking to a person of limited intelligence or limited English) It. Stands. For. Patent. Foramen. Ovale.
Me: Isn't that PFO?
He didn't miss a beat, but launched into a condescending explanation of the physiology of patent foramen ovale. Who does he think he is? I'm the doctor. I'm supposed to play the role of the arrogant ass who doesn't listen.
UPDATE: Needless to say, permalinks don't work. Go to main page and scroll down to "Undervalued Headaches" (2/2/2004 04:53:51 AM) and "Job Satisfaction" (1/30/2004 06:03:25 PM).