husband's serious issue or PTSD?

[judiblue]

My husband just returned from Afghanistan 3 months ago.  He's the opposite of a hypochondriac and in great physical shape.  He has complained about swelling on left side of neck/head/throat and pain shooting up rt side of head. It has has persisted since before he returned and seems to be getting worse.  He says he's fatigued all the time and has little strength.  I questioned him yesterday about depression and he insists that he is not and told me that he feels like something is really wrong with him.  He has been to the doctor twice - no blood tests, just allergy medicine.  I have been very patient with him assuming he will have adjustment issues but his entire personality has changed.  He has gone from a very easy going, positive person to the complete opposite.  I want to call his doctor to insists on some testing to rule out something more serious so we can deal with PTSD if it is that.  He should be advocating for himself but I am worried that he sees anything behavioral as a weakness (military mentality).  

Any suggestions on how I can approach doctor and advocate for him.  I think he really wants me too.

j

[judiblue]

Thank you.  I will see that he does.  He has appointment tomorrow and I will make sure he has CT or MRI of neck and proper blood work.  I will keep reminding him that he needs to be honest.  He's high ranking with 26 years in and may be afraid that serious medical issues (physical or mental) will force a transition that he's not ready for.  

Thank you for your service as well...

j

[Gretkurl]

He needs to go back to his PCM and ask for a CT or MRI of his neck and head.  He may have nerve damage, an abcess, or a tumor.  He also needs to be upfront with his PCM about his symptoms and not minimize them.  I have 26 years in the military--getting help is NOT a sign of weakness.  He will be helping himself and his fellow soldiers by letting them see it is ok to go to the doc.