"I felt very upset and vulnerable"

I have suffered with terrible joint pain and many other symptoms since getting Lyme disease from a tick in 2010. Which was at first misdiagnosed (even had the classic rash). However later blood tests confirmed it - I was tested positive and treated for lyme disease on NHS. I received a very low dose of oral antibiotics.

I was left with deteriorating hips and have had two hip arthroscopies and then a full left hip replacement in my early 30's. 

My right hip has now become unbearably sore at times and they are meant to be looking into it again for possible treatments.

I attended for an Orthopaedic consultation at Dr Grays in Elgin. I had to describe my whole health history and the person I saw got increasingly frustrated and dismissive as I explained about Lyme disease, stating that they "obviously" can't just take my word on this. It was actually shocking and very upsetting. This level of stigma and suspicion around Lyme from medical professionals I've found sadly to be very common and it has had devastating consequences on many people's lives and confidence. 

They clearly were unable to access my notes and it ended up being this suspicious interview. I was asked what I did for work and I informed them I hadn't worked in many years due to my condition. In response, there was a comment about me being just a housewife as I was getting undressed to be examined. I felt very upset and vulnerable, frustrated and dismissed. 

I studied biology at university and have a good understanding of the body, bacteria and obviously have also learnt a lot in the 14 years since becoming ill. The staff member was dismissive of me and cut me off constantly. 

I explained gently that I found the words used when they said I was just a housewife to be offensive, and got a half apology. 

The only time any interest was shown was when I told him what surgeon operated on me 3 times. They commented that they knew that person - that he was very good.

I've been very upset since this appointment and my health care has diminished to a bare minimum in last few years. I have no permanent GP who knows anything about my health or history, and then I get this level of care at the hospital. 

I'm in constant moderate to severe pain now, and have not heard back about getting more MRIs done/treatment.