External Health Does Not Equal Internal Health
From the outside, I am the picture of health. I’m young, 31 years old. I'm fit, able to do pull-ups and deadlift twice my bodyweight. I’m a wellness professional; my career revolves around promoting healthy living. I weigh 115 pounds, stay active, and maintain a nutritious diet. My skin glows. I am flexible. My blood pressure and resting heart rate are wonderful.
However, despite my outward appearance and physical fitness, my internal health does not match this vitality. I live with a genetic condition called familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). This condition means my body has high levels of LDL cholesterol, putting me at significant risk for heart disease, early heart attack, and stroke. My journey with FH has been a challenging and often misunderstood experience, affecting both my personal and professional life.
This or That
Have you ever felt like your illness was invisible?
The illusion of health
When people look at me, they see someone who embodies wellness. In my career, I strive to set an example of healthy living in my community. I teach yoga and fitness classes and practice what I preach.
Yet, despite my dedication to health, my internal reality tells a different story. FH is a silent condition, often with no visible symptoms until severe cardiovascular issues arise. My cholesterol levels are dangerously high, regardless of my healthy lifestyle.
Challenges in the professional world
As a wellness professional, my credibility hinges on my appearance of health. People often assume that because I look fit and energetic, I am entirely free of health issues. This assumption can be both a blessing and a curse.
While it may lend me credibility, it also creates a facade that hides my struggles with FH. Sharing my condition with my community helps my students and clients understand that I, too, am human, and that health is also hard for me.
Battles at doctor's appointments
Navigating the healthcare system with FH has been a frustrating experience. Many doctors see a young, fit individual and dismiss the severity of my condition. It’s not uncommon for healthcare professionals to downplay my concerns, assuming that my healthy appearance equates to a healthy cardiovascular system.
Explaining FH to doctors who are unfamiliar with the condition adds to the challenge. I’ve had to advocate for myself, pushing for the right tests and treatments to manage my cholesterol levels effectively.
The mental toll of FH
Living with FH while presenting as the epitome of health takes a mental toll. The constant need to educate others about my condition, combined with the pressure to maintain my professional image, can be exhausting. It’s isolating to have a hidden illness that others cannot see or understand. This dichotomy between how I look and what I know is happening inside creates an ongoing internal conflict, impacting my mental and emotional well-being.
Finding balance and support
Despite these challenges, I’ve learned the importance of seeking support and finding balance. Therapy has been a crucial part of my journey, providing a space to express my frustrations and fears. Meditation and breathwork have also become essential tools, helping me manage stress and maintain my mental health. Connecting with others who have FH through social media has offered comfort and practical advice, reminding me that I’m not alone in this struggle.
Raising awareness about FH
One of my goals as a wellness professional is to raise awareness about FH. By sharing my story, I hope to educate others about the condition and challenge the misconception that outward appearance always reflects internal health. It’s vital to understand that even those who look healthy can have serious health issues. Through my work, I aim to create a more compassionate and informed perspective on health and wellness.
Living with FH while maintaining the appearance of perfect health is a challenging and often misunderstood experience. Despite the difficulties, it has made me a more empathetic and knowledgeable wellness professional. By continuing to share my story and advocate for myself and others with FH, I hope to share the truth and help lead others towards a true understanding of what it means to be healthy.
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