Ah Annie! That has really made me smile! Thank you!
I just started getting published this year and couldn't resist adding something on hysteria in my first paper:

'The attempt to control woman both symbolically and literally during this time was reflected in a pervading fear of the unknown and little understood territory of the female reproductive system. This preoccupation with controlling 'woman' was evident in the catechism hysteria, which connected the menstrual cycle with otherwise 'unexplainable' neurological symptoms. The idea that woman's sexual desire was in some way beyond control was encapsulated in the belief that such symptoms were produced by a 'wandering womb', which detached itself from its proper place and moved up to the neck resulting in feelings of suffocation. Indeed, it was believed that the condition could be cured through 'hysterical paroxysm' or 'pelvic massage', now understood as female orgasm. That sexual reproduction and female sexuality was at the centre of this now widely disproved theory is of great significance in seeking to understand ways in which 'woman' has been categorised, controlled and in some cases, forcibly misunderstood.'

Writing is such a good way to get things off your chest! Ha!

Thank you south blues and Mrs D (is that for vitamin D?!?) for your advice on supplementation. I will give these things a go and see if they help.

I'm certainly finding my new diet is helping. I have managed to identify that sugar and carbohydrates are contributing to making the muscle hyperactivity symptoms much worse. I feel better for avoiding them.

Rach, I did change GP just over a year ago as I moved house. My GP now is very good, understanding and helpful. Unfortunately he is new to the practice and early in his career and his thoughts and opinions on referrals always seems to get over-ruled by more 'senior' members of the team. I'd be sad to leave his care because he has stood by me and done more than most but he obviously doesn't have much control over what the neurologist or other consultants say. I guess I should go and talk to him again. I feel like such a pain in the ******!!!

Anacrusis, I know exactly what you mean about being turned away on the basis of a referral. I have been considering travelling country to get a diagnosis but as you point out – the diagnosis wouldn't be valid when I got back to my own country.

Has anyone tried home-test kits for electrolyte balance and/or vitamin levels and are they reliable?