Stories & Experiences
Neurodivergence and Neuroendocrine Cancer by Bethann
Autism complicates healthcare, due to communication and social difficulties, somatic and sensory sensitivities, and also because there are differences in physiology – differences that are not always anticipated or appreciated
Neurodivergence is wider than autism, but this piece specifically refers to autism.
Most people are aware of the “social” aspects of autism, but not the wider impact. The tragedy of Oliver MacGowan proves that we do not always respond to medication as neurotypical people do, response to ill health can be different, and that a failure to be aware of those potential problems can be detrimental or even fatal.
Autism is a spectrum disorder, so it is variable: no one with autism experiences being autistic in the same way, so although this is my experience, and there are likely commonalities, others may experience things differently. I have both autism and neuroendocrine cancer (NEN, or neuroendocrine neoplasm). Autism complicates healthcare, due to communication and social difficulties, somatic and sensory sensitivities, and also because there are differences in physiology – differences that are not always anticipated or appreciated.
Pain is a good example.
I had infective discitis, one of the most painful infections possible, but it was not diagnosed for nearly 6 months because I didn’t display pain “ properly ”. People with autism tend to have altered pain response they feel pain, but it may not show physically or emotionally...
CLICK HERE to read Bethann’s story in full.
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www.neuroendocrinecancer.org.uk
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